Our team has significant experience advising corporates that suspect employees of having committed misconduct, including criminal fraud.
We can conduct internal investigations, taking care to preserve material where it may ultimately be required as evidence in criminal proceedings, in order to establish whether disciplinary action or a report to the relevant authorities is necessary. Once an investigation has been completed, we can provide advice on reporting to the relevant regulator and on any remedial action, including the adequacy of corporate policies and procedures, in order to mitigate the risk of further exposure or liability.
We are experienced in supporting clients through any subsequent investigation and prosecution, including advising in relation to the evidence gathering process, the preparation of witness statements and on the merits of the case. Should our clients wish to explore the option of bringing criminal proceedings themselves, we can also advise on the viability of a private prosecution.
We recognise the importance of protecting the financial health and reputation of our corporate clients and of having a commercial approach. As fraud cases often involve both a criminal and civil angle, we regularly work in parallel with our colleagues in the civil fraud team who can provide advice and support in connection with the bringing of parallel civil proceedings aimed at securing assets that have been stolen from the company or secret profits. We ensure that a comprehensive strategy is in place so as to prioritise our clients' objectives both civilly and criminally.