Investigations and enforcement

In our complex world, regulation has grown exponentially, giving regulators, prosecutors, and other law enforcement agencies far-reaching powers to investigate and fine. Much of that regulation is aimed at preventing or combatting fraud and financial crime which is increasingly sophisticated, affecting all parts of society. It is estimated to cost the UK economy alone as much as £125 billion every year.

Successfully handling investigations requires prompt action together with specialist knowledge and skill across a number of areas. At Penningtons Manches Cooper, our multi-disciplinary team provides expert, bespoke support for corporate and individual clients, whether they are facing investigation or prosecution or seeking redress after a regulatory or criminal incident has had an impact on their business or affected them personally. In addition to swiftly addressing immediate concerns, our eye for detail and analytical thinking enable us to devise highly effective, longer-term strategies to resolve the issues they face and prevent them from re-occurring.

Our lawyers are experienced in providing advice and representation in relation to the full range of investigations by the Financial Conduct Authority, Serious Fraud Office, HM Revenue & Customs, the Crown Prosecution Service, National Crime Agency and the police. We can also assist where there are cross-border investigations which may involve mutual legal assistance or joint operations between UK and foreign law enforcement agencies, such as the US Department of Justice, and the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

We are independently recognised for our skill in handling the criminal, commercial and regulatory overlap that these cases often require and will provide preventative advice on financial hygiene and the implementation of policies to address bribery, corruption and money laundering. We are leaders in the field of cyber crime and cyber security.

Working closely with other members of our commercial dispute resolution, reputation management and insurance teams, our lawyers’ priority is to adopt a seamless and comprehensive approach from the outset, ensuring wherever possible that sensitive cases are kept out of the press and any reputational damage is minimised.