Fraud & financial crime

Fraud and financial crime prosecutions are among the most complex in the criminal justice system. Investigations by the Serious Fraud Office, HMRC, the FCA, or the Crown Prosecution Service Fraud Division can span years and involve vast quantities of documentary and electronic evidence.

Matters covered

I accept instructions in all fraud and financial crime matters, including:

  • Fraud by false representation, failure to disclose, and abuse of position (Fraud Act 2006)
  • Money laundering (Proceeds of Crime Act 2002)
  • Tax evasion and HMRC investigations
  • Serious Fraud Office (SFO) investigations
  • Bribery and corruption (Bribery Act 2010)
  • Mortgage, insurance, and benefit fraud
  • Confiscation proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002
  • Unexplained wealth orders

Confiscation proceedings

A conviction for a financial offence frequently leads to confiscation proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. The prosecution will seek to establish the benefit figure and the available amount. These proceedings require specialist advice and, where assets are at risk, urgent intervention to protect legitimate interests.

Pre-charge and investigation stage

In complex fraud cases, the investigation stage can last several years. Instructing a solicitor at the earliest opportunity — particularly before any interview under caution or production order — is essential. Early engagement can shape the direction of the investigation and, in some cases, prevent a charge being brought at all.

Frequently asked questions

A confiscation order is made by the Crown Court following conviction for a qualifying offence. The court assesses the benefit from criminal conduct and the amount available to pay. An order must usually be paid within six months.
An unexplained wealth order requires a person to explain the source of assets that appear disproportionate to their known income. A failure to provide a satisfactory explanation may result in civil recovery of the assets.
You should seek legal advice before complying with or responding to a production order. There are grounds on which production orders can be challenged, and the scope of the order may be narrower than it appears.