Money laundering investigations
Money laundering investigations are frequently complex and may be conducted by specialist police units, financial investigators or other enforcement agencies.
In some cases, an individual may be accused of directly benefiting from criminal property. In others, allegations arise because of transactions carried out on behalf of another person, the receipt of funds, or involvement in business arrangements that later come under scrutiny.
Investigations may involve intrusive inspection of all areas of your financial life, such as your:
The circumstances of every case are different and early legal advice can be crucial in protecting your position.
Asset restraint and financial investigations
Money laundering investigations are frequently accompanied by attempts to identify, trace and restrain assets.
Individuals may find bank accounts frozen, property subjected to investigation or financial records seized for examination.
These measures can have an immediate impact on both personal and business affairs. We advise clients in relation to the wider consequences of financial investigations and work to protect their interests throughout the process.
We will help clients take action against these pre-trial restraints. Depending on the circumstances, we may be able to apply for the restraint to be removed or for an amount to be paid from the restrained funds to support your living expenses or to allow you to continue running your business.
Understanding the allegations
Money laundering cases frequently involve complex financial, factual and legal issues.
The prosecution will seek to establish that an individual knew, suspected that they were dealing with criminal money or property. The defence frequently centres on questions of knowledge, intention, belief and the true nature of the transactions involved.
Important issues for trial will be things like the source of the funds, what was known about the transaction at the time, e.g. whether any due diligence checks were carried out. The court may also look into the purpose of financial arrangements, including the business and commercial context in which transactions occur. Reliance on professional advice can be an important defence point.
It is important to not only have a coherent account but to be able to corroborate that account with evidence such as written advice from professional advisors, meeting notes, and so on.
A successful defence will come from a thorough and forensic understanding of the evidence against you and the evidence that can be brought to bear in your defence.
Representation from investigation to trial
Money laundering proceedings can be lengthy and document-heavy, requiring detailed preparation and strategic case management.
We provide representation at every stage of the process, including:
We will instruct specialist barristers, forensic accountants and other experts to ensure that all relevant evidence is properly examined and persuasively presented.
Discreet and professional advice
An allegation of money laundering can have serious consequences for an individual's reputation, business interests and professional standing, regardless of whether any conviction ultimately follows.
We understand the importance of providing clear advice, careful preparation and discreet representation throughout what can often be a highly stressful process.
Speak to a money laundering solicitor
If you are being investigated for money laundering or have been charged with an offence, contact Hartley's Solicitors for confidential advice about your situation and the options available to you.
A strategic defence from the start
From the first moment of contact, we will protect your position, challenge the evidence and build the strongest possible defence on your behalf. Our solicitors have extensive experience in criminal litigation and a relentless desire to win.
Early advice can make all the difference
Relentless representation.
Get in touch today for a confidential discussion with a specialist criminal defence solicitor