Commercial Fraud / Criminal Fraud

BCL has one of the largest dedicated commercial fraud / criminal fraud departments in the UK and is recognised as a pre-eminent firm in the area.  We provide expert advice and representation to organisations and individuals, nationally and internationally, in relation to the investigation and prosecution of all types of fraud.

Over the years, our work has become increasingly international, reflecting the increased globalisation of the investigation and prosecution of fraud and the recognition that fraud is a global problem that affects not just the countries in which the alleged perpetrators reside, but the wider international financial community.

Since the inception of the Serious Fraud Office (the “SFO”) in 1987, we have acted for a wide range of individuals and organisations in relation to the majority of the investigations and prosecutions conducted by the SFO.  As such, our lawyers have a wealth of experience to draw upon when advising clients who are required by the SFO to attend a compulsory interview or to provide documents under a section 2 notice.  In particular, we are able to assess the legality of any such notice and, if appropriate, challenge it by way of judicial review.  We also assist in identifying what material, if any, needs to be disclosed with specific reference to issues of relevance and legal professional privilege.

In addition, we advise and represent individuals and organisations prosecuted by the Serious Crime Division of the Crown Prosecution Service, the Fraud Prosecution Service, and HM Revenue & Customs Prosecutions Office.  We also have substantial experience of prosecutions brought by other authorities, such as the DTI (now the Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform), the MoD and the British Transport Police.

We have a wide range of experience in all types of City fraud cases, including investment, insurance and factoring fraud.  BCL has particular expertise in cases featuring international financial transactions and those involving accountancy and banking evidence.  In addition, we have acted successfully in several large scale multi-million pound Missing Trader Intra-Community (“MTIC” or “Carousel”) fraud cases.