If you are being investigated by the financial authorities, our financial crime team offer expert advice, guidance and representation.
The law and compliance regulations surrounding business money and assets are notoriously complex. Rules can be breached inadvertently and penalties can be substantial if you are found guilty.

Expert legal advice and representation

At Taylor Law, our business and financial crime team offer experienced representation and where necessary will put together a robust defence on your behalf.
We understand the intricacies of complex fraud and money laundering legislation and will ensure that any investigation into you or your enterprise is properly managed and does not breach your rights. We can also act on your behalf if your assets have been frozen or seized or you have been made the subject of a restraint order.

Fraud

If you are being investigated for suspected fraud, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A number of government agencies could be involved, to include the Serious Fraud Office, the Crown Prosecution Service, the National Crime Agency and City of London Police.
Investigations can be complex and can last for many months, even years. Engaging an expert legal adviser will ensure that investigators do not exceed their authority and that any investigation is moved along as quickly as possible.

Money laundering

A wide range of money laundering offences exists, with some heavy penalties for those found guilty.
Involvement in money laundering can be inadvertent or simply a breach of the regulations surrounding due diligence, record-keeping and having the right policies and procedures in place to identify individuals and the source of their funds.
Under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, it is an offence to be involved with the following:

• Concealing, disguising, converting, transferring or removing criminal property;
• Being involved in an arrangement to acquire, retain, use or control criminal property;
• Acquiring, using or possessing criminal property.

The maximum sentence is 14 years in prison or a fine or both.

Asset seizure

Under the Proceeds of Crime Act, the authorities can also seize cash and other assets if they believe that they were acquired as a result of criminal activity or that they will be used to commit a crime.
Having bank accounts frozen or being excluded from a property can be extremely disruptive as well as being damaging to your business and your reputation and upsetting for your family.
If you are subjected to asset seizure, you should seek legal advice without delay. If you instruct us to act on your behalf, we can work with you to establish their legitimate origin and secure their return.

Choosing Taylor Law

Penalties for fraud and money laundering can be substantial, ranging from community orders and fines through to sizeable financial orders and lengthy prison sentences. At Taylor Law we will start work on your representation without delay, building a strong defence and raising any issues there may be in mitigation.
Our solicitors have experience in a wide range of business and financial crimes. Some of our partners have rights of audience in higher courts, meaning they can represent you without the need for a barrister.

Contact us

We have criminal defence solicitors in Leeds, Middlesbrough and London who are experts in the field and who will be able to answer any questions you may have. We provide a first-rate legal service and have an excellent track record of success.
For an initial discussion, ring us on 0113 532 8100 (Leeds), 01642 221 108 (Middlesbrough) or 0203 780 7646 (London) or fill in our Contact Form.