SFO Investigations

SFO Investigations can involve complex Deferred Prosecution Agreements, requests for assistance from foreign jurisdictions, lengthy trials and extended confiscation proceedings, all which require specialist serious fraud assistance.

St Pauls has a hard-earned reputation as a leading set for fraud, money laundering, and corruption in the north. Our serious fraud lawyers are well known for their superb advocacy and commercial acumen, and have expert knowledge regarding the Serious Fraud Office, including the SFO investigation process and SFO prosecutions. They are regularly instructed to prosecute or defend complex and high-profile matters in SFO investigation.

What is The Serious Fraud Office?

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) is an authority that investigates and prosecutes serious or complex fraud, bribery and corruption. It was established in 1988, and was given its powers under the Criminal Justice Act 1987. The Serious Fraud Office is part of the criminal justice system in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The Serious Fraud Office works closely with other agencies, such as the National Crime Agency, UK police forces, HM Revenue & Customs and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

SFO Investigation

An SFO investigation can have serious consequences for a business or individual, including a damaged reputation and financial implications. Because of this, we advise and represent individuals and corporations at all stages of an SFO investigation.

Our SFO specialists are well-versed in the SFO investigation process and its complexities. They can navigate difficult cases effectively and efficiently, and tackle any SFO investigation with an accurate and comprehensive approach.

Our team can provide critical pre-charge advice, which can often result in the avoidance of proceedings altogether. They are also able to draw on our extensive experience in dealing with international or multi-jurisdictional matters, as well as our expertise in mutual legal assistance, to meet the challenges posed by the increasingly globalised nature of fraud investigations and prosecutions.

SFO Prosecutions

All SFO prosecutions follow the Code for Crown Prosecutors. This means all SFO prosecutions adhere to a two-stage test:

1. Is there enough evidence against the defendant?
2. Is it in the public interest for the CPS to bring the case to court?

A number of our members of chambers are appointed by the Serious Fraud Office to undertake SFO prosecutions (on a specialist panel, consisting of three grades – A panel, B panel, and C panel). They are particularly familiar with the approach taken in serious fraud investigation, SFO prosecutions, and are ideally placed to advise private individuals and corporates on the issues arising, related to serious fraud.