Practice Areas
So central is the question of confiscation to criminal proceedings today, it is easy to forget that until the late 1980s there was no statutory scheme to deprive those convicted of the proceeds of their crimes.
The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 consolidated the existing legislation, but the law in this expanding area remains notoriously complicated, with added complexity arising from EU and domestic counter-terrorist measures.
Specialist practioners in chambers are well-placed to provide expert guidance to those seeking representation and advice in this area, whether for the prosecution or the professional advisor concerned about the impact of anti-money laundering provisions.
Our prominent standing in the closely related area of business crime adds to the range and depth of advice that we are able to offer and enables us to provide continuity of representation throughout criminal proceedings.
We have recently appeared in the leading case of R v May. Chambers contains past and present Standing Counsel to the Revenue and Customs, with considerable expertise in this area. Members of chambers are instructed by or on behalf of:
- The CPS;
- The SFO;
- The FPS;
- The Asset Recovery Agency;
- Receivers;
- Defendants;
- Local authorities and private prosecutors.
- Drafting restraint and other orders, applications and witness statements in support;
- Advising defendants and third parties affected by restraint and related orders;
- Advising and representing court-appointed receivers.
We are also able to assist those working in the financial sector as to criminal liability for money laundering under the Proceeds of Crime Act, the Money Laundering Regulations, and the 3rd EU Money Laundering Directive.