Money Laundering and Financial Crimes Solicitors
Money Laundering and Financial Crimes Solicitors in Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Across England
Money laundering and financial crimes are some of the most serious allegations under UK law, carrying the risk of substantial fines, confiscation of assets, and lengthy prison sentences. Whether you are an individual or a business, such charges can have devastating financial and reputational consequences.
At Cooper Hall Solicitors, we provide strategic, comprehensive defence for clients accused of offences under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) 2002 and other financial crime laws. Our solicitors are experienced in handling complex cases involving financial investigations, asset tracing, and regulatory compliance breaches.
Serving clients in Yorkshire, Lancashire, and across England, we offer bespoke legal solutions tailored to protect your assets, rights, and future.
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What Are Money Laundering and Financial Crimes?
Money laundering involves disguising the origins of money obtained through illegal activities, making it appear legitimate.
Financial crimes, on the other hand, encompass a broader range of offences that exploit financial systems for unlawful gain.
Key Money Laundering Offences
Possession of Criminal Property
Holding funds or assets derived from illegal activities.
Transferring Criminal Property
Moving or converting illicit funds to conceal their origin.
Failure to Disclose Suspicious Activity
Professionals such as bankers, accountants, or solicitors failing to report suspected money laundering activity.
Facilitation of Tax Evasion
Businesses or individuals enabling clients to avoid tax payments through illegal means.
Key Financial Crimes
Fraudulent Trading
Conducting business operations with the intent to defraud stakeholders.
Insider Trading
Using confidential information to gain an unfair advantage in stock trading.
Tax Evasion
Evading tax obligations by concealing income, inflating deductions, or using illegal offshore accounts.
Bribery and Corruption
Involves offering or receiving bribes to influence decisions in business or public office.
The Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) 2002
The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 is the primary legislation governing money laundering and asset recovery in the UK. Authorities have extensive powers under POCA, including:
1. Confiscation Orders
A court-ordered requirement for individuals to repay the value of benefits gained from criminal activities.
Example: An order to repay £500,000 for assets linked to organised crime.
2. Unexplained Wealth Orders (UWOs)
Requires individuals to explain the origin of wealth suspected to be linked to crime.
Often applied to high-value assets like luxury properties or vehicles.
3. Asset Freezing Orders
Preventing the use or movement of funds or property during an investigation.
Example: Freezing of £1 million in bank accounts linked to suspected tax evasion.
How We Defend Money Laundering and Financial Crime Cases
At Cooper Hall Solicitors, we use a proactive and strategic approach to defend clients accused of financial crimes.
1. Analysing Financial Evidence
We meticulously review all financial records, transaction logs, and audit trails to identify inconsistencies or gaps in the prosecution’s case.
2. Challenging Intent
Money laundering and financial crime cases often hinge on proving intent. We work to demonstrate:
- Lack of knowledge regarding the criminal origin of funds.
- Miscommunication or errors in reporting.
3. Procedural Defence
We scrutinise the investigation process to identify procedural breaches, such as:
- Unlawful seizure of assets.
- Non-compliance with POCA guidelines.
4. Collaborating with Experts
We engage financial analysts, forensic accountants, and compliance specialists to strengthen your defence.
5. Negotiating Alternatives
Where appropriate, we negotiate reduced penalties, deferred prosecution agreements, or out-of-court settlements to minimise the impact on your life and business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Money laundering involves possessing, transferring, or using funds or assets that are derived from criminal activity. This can include even indirect involvement with illicit funds.
Yes. Under POCA, authorities can freeze assets based on suspicion alone. We can help challenge freezing orders to restore access to your property.
Insider trading can lead to substantial fines, imprisonment, and bans from holding directorial roles in companies.
A confiscation order requires individuals to repay the value of benefits derived from criminal activities. The amount is often determined by the court based on the alleged criminal benefit.
By providing documentary evidence, such as bank statements, tax filings, or contracts, showing the legal origin of the funds.
Why Choose Cooper Hall Solicitors?
Specialist Expertise in
Financial Crime Defence
Decades of experience defending clients in high-profile money laundering and financial crime cases.
Proven Success in
POCA Cases
Successfully challenging confiscation orders, freezing orders, and unexplained wealth orders.
Bespoke
Defence Strategies
Tailored legal solutions designed to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
24/7
Support
Immediate advice and representation whenever you need it.