Allegations of money laundering should be taken seriously. Penalties include a criminal conviction and sentence of up to 14 years in prison, recovery of funds and removal of authority.
Cases can be complex and investigations are often wide-ranging in scope and disruptive to businesses and individuals.

Legal advice and representation in money laundering cases

If you are advised that you are being investigated on suspicion of money laundering, it is advisable to seek legal representation as soon as possible. You may harm your defence if you give investigators the wrong information or if you make an error when answering their enquiries.
At Taylor Law our financial crime team have extensive experience in representing clients during money laundering investigations and, in the event that a case proceeds, at trial. We understand how the authorities will work in putting together a case against you and we will respond with a robust defence.
We will also work to minimise the damage and disruption to you and any business you have. By dealing quickly and efficiently with enquiries we will do our utmost to dispose of the case and avoid a trial.

The crime of money laundering

Money laundering is the moving of money or assets that are the proceeds of crime in order to disguise its criminal origins.
As well as concealing, moving, converting or disguising criminal property, it is an offence to be involved in money laundering being carried out by someone else. This means that it is possible to be convicted under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 even if you are not the main offender.
The prosecution will need to show that you knew or suspected that the property in question was criminal property or property resulting from criminal conduct.
This means that may have a valid defence if you can show that you were unaware of any criminal activity or criminal origin of the assets involved.

Breaching money laundering regulations

If you are a professional involved in finance such as an accountant, financial advisor, fund manager, solicitor or estate agent there are strict checks that you must make as well as disclosures that must be made in respect of transactions that you knew or should have suspected involved money laundering. The rules are set out in the Money Laundering Regulations 2007. Failure to make these disclosures is a criminal offence punishable by up to five years in prison.
Tipping someone off about an investigation is also an offence where the information could prejudice the investigation.

Our services

If you are being investigated on suspicion of money laundering you may have to attend interviews, provide extensive financial information and have your premises and your home searched. We will step in to ensure that you have representation and advice throughout.
We will work to reverse any restraint orders or freezing of assets and make sure that you have as strong a defence as possible.

Contact us

Money laundering is a serious offence. As well as imprisonment, the prosecution may seek to impose substantial fines and recover money under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
We have expert criminal defence solicitors in Leeds, Middlesbrough and London who can step in immediately to represent you and deal with investigators and police on your behalf. 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.