SFO Defence Solicitors

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) is the UK’s primary agency for investigating and prosecuting complex cases of fraud, bribery, and corruption. If you or your organisation is under investigation by the SFO, the stakes are high, and the consequences can be severe. Convictions can lead to lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, confiscation of assets, and irreparable reputational damage. Early and effective legal intervention from experienced SFO defence solicitors is crucial to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome.

At our firm, we specialise in providing expert legal defence for individuals and businesses involved in SFO investigations and prosecutions. Our solicitors have extensive experience navigating the complexities of financial crime and corporate misconduct cases. With a strong focus on strategic defence and client care, we are dedicated to safeguarding your interests throughout the process.

What is the Serious Fraud Office (SFO)?

The SFO is an independent government agency tasked with investigating and prosecuting the most serious cases of economic crime. It has the authority to investigate individuals, businesses, and institutions under the Fraud Act 2006, the Bribery Act 2010, and other legislation.

Common Allegations Investigated by the SFO:

• Serious Fraud: Large-scale fraud cases, including Ponzi schemes, insider trading, and false accounting.
• Bribery and Corruption: Allegations of bribery in both domestic and international contexts.
• Money Laundering: Investigations into the handling of proceeds from criminal activities.
• Corporate Misconduct: Failure to prevent economic crimes or comply with anti-bribery regulations.
• Tax Evasion: Large-scale or systematic evasion of tax obligations.

Consequences of an SFO Investigation

Being under investigation by the SFO can have far-reaching consequences, even before any charges are brought.

Potential Outcomes Include:

• Criminal Charges: Prosecution for fraud, bribery, or corruption offences, which can result in significant prison sentences and fines.
• Confiscation of Assets: Freezing or confiscation of assets under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA).
• Corporate Penalties: Fines, loss of licences, or debarment from public contracts for organisations.
• Reputational Damage: Negative publicity and loss of trust from clients, investors, or stakeholders.
• Civil Actions: Victims or regulators may pursue separate civil claims for damages or compensation.

How Our SFO Defence Solicitors Can Help

Our experienced SFO defence solicitors provide expert advice and robust representation at every stage of the investigation and prosecution process. We focus on protecting your rights, challenging the evidence, and securing the best possible outcome for your case.

1. Early Legal Advice

The earlier you seek legal advice, the greater the opportunity to influence the direction of the investigation. Early intervention can prevent missteps and help build a strong defence.

Our Services Include:

• Advising you on your legal rights and obligations during the investigation.
• Assisting with responses to SFO information requests, such as Section 2 Notices.
• Preparing you for interviews under caution to ensure you do not inadvertently incriminate yourself.

2. Representation During SFO Investigations

SFO investigations are often lengthy and involve extensive scrutiny of financial records, communications, and business practices. Our solicitors work tirelessly to protect your interests during this process.

Our Approach Includes:

• Challenging the legality and scope of SFO actions, such as searches, seizures, or freezing orders.
• Reviewing evidence to identify inconsistencies, errors, or procedural breaches.
• Advising on cooperation strategies, including the potential benefits and risks of self-reporting.

3. Defending Against Prosecution

If charges are brought, our solicitors provide skilled defence representation to contest allegations and minimise penalties.

Defence Strategies May Include:

• Challenging Evidence: Identifying flaws in financial analysis, forensic evidence, or witness testimony.
• Demonstrating Lack of Intent: Proving that actions were taken in good faith or without criminal intent.
• Corporate Defence: Arguing that adequate compliance measures were in place to prevent misconduct.
• Negotiating Deferred Prosecution Agreements (DPAs): Exploring options to resolve cases without a criminal conviction.

4. Asset Protection and Recovery

The SFO often seeks to freeze or confiscate assets during investigations. Our solicitors provide expert advice on protecting your property and challenging unjust actions.

Our Services Include:

• Contesting freezing orders or restraint orders imposed by the SFO.
• Negotiating asset recovery or compensation for businesses affected by investigations.
• Advising on compliance with confiscation orders to minimise financial loss.

5. Representation in Court

If your case proceeds to trial, our experienced advocates provide robust representation to ensure your defence is presented effectively.

In Court, We Will:

• Cross-examine witnesses, including financial experts and investigators, to challenge their credibility and evidence.
• Present expert testimony to dispute allegations or explain legitimate business practices.
• Deliver persuasive arguments to establish reasonable doubt or mitigate sentencing if a conviction is unavoidable.

6. Post-Conviction Support

If you are convicted, we can assist with appeals, compliance, and minimising the impact of penalties.

Post-Conviction Services Include:

• Preparing appeals to challenge convictions or sentences.
• Advising on compliance with fines, confiscation orders, or regulatory sanctions.
• Assisting with rehabilitation measures to restore professional and business reputation.

Why Choose Us as Your SFO Defence Solicitors?

SFO cases require specialist knowledge of financial crime law, corporate regulations, and forensic evidence. Our solicitors are dedicated to providing expert legal support and achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.

1. Specialist Expertise: Extensive experience in SFO investigations and prosecutions, representing individuals and corporations.
2. Tailored Defence Strategies: Bespoke approaches that align with your circumstances and objectives.
3. Proven Track Record: Successful outcomes in complex, high-profile financial crime cases.
4. Professional and Discreet Representation: Confidentiality and professionalism in all aspects of your case.
5. 24/7 Availability: Immediate advice and support whenever needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if I receive a Section 2 Notice from the SFO?

Contact a solicitor immediately. A Section 2 Notice requires you to provide information or documents and must be handled carefully to avoid self-incrimination.

2. Can I challenge a freezing order from the SFO?

Yes. Our solicitors can review the order and challenge it if it is overly broad, unnecessary, or unlawfully obtained.

3. What is a Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA)?

A DPA is a settlement between the SFO and a company, allowing the company to avoid prosecution by meeting certain conditions, such as paying fines or improving compliance.

4. How long do SFO investigations take?

SFO investigations are often lengthy, with some cases lasting several years due to their complexity.

5. Can I appeal an SFO conviction?

Yes. If there are grounds to believe the conviction or sentence was unjust, we can help you explore options for appeal.

Contact Our SFO Defence Solicitors Today

If you are facing an SFO investigation or prosecution, early legal intervention is essential to protecting your rights and securing a favourable outcome. Contact us now on 0208 732 5458 or 07946 424 154, or email us at admin@makwanas.co.uk to arrange a confidential consultation.

Our experienced SFO defence solicitors are available 24/7 to provide expert advice, robust defence, and practical support. Safeguard your freedom, finances, and reputation—call us today.