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What Is Money Laundering?

Money laundering is the process by which individuals disguise or convert the proceeds of illegal conduct so that funds appear legitimate. Under UK law, offences include concealing, transferring, dealing with or using criminal property. 

Examples of money laundering activity include:

• Transferring large or unexplained cash amounts through business or personal accounts

• Using front companies, real estate or shell companies to convert illicit proceeds

• Acting as a “money mule” or intermediary to conceal origins of funds 

• Because of its breadth, a money-laundering conviction can carry very serious penalties, including long prison sentences and confiscation of assets. 

Why Choose Us for Your Money Laundering Defence?

• We are London-based solicitors with specialist expertise in financial crime, money laundering and asset recovery.

• We handle the full spectrum of money-laundering cases: from early investigation, regulatory enquiries and restraint orders, through to Crown Court trials and appeals.

• We offer urgent access — early instruction is crucial to preserve evidence, challenge regulatory action and protect assets.

• We understand the complex interplay between criminal defence, civil asset recovery, regulatory sanctions, professional discipline and reputational risk.

• Transparent funding advice: we review whether you qualify for legal aid (in certain cases) or explain private fee structures clearly so you know the cost ahead of time.

Our Money Laundering & Financial Crime Service Areas

Investigation, Arrest & Police Station Representation

If you are under suspicion of laundering criminal property, we provide immediate advice, attend the police station, help you understand your rights and protect against interview risks.

Regulatory & Multi-Agency Investigations

We act where the investigating agencies include the National Crime Agency (NCA), Serious Fraud Office (SFO), HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and others — asset-freezing, disclosure demands and production orders. 

Criminal Charges & Trials for Money Laundering Offences

We defend clients charged under sections of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and related statutes, creating appropriate defence strategies, challenging evidence of benefit, intent and property link. 

Sentencing Mitigation, Appeals & Regulatory Consequences

If you are convicted, we offer post-conviction support including sentencing mitigation and appeals.

Key Considerations & What to Expect

• Early legal intervention is critical — investigations into money laundering often involve rapid moves to restrain assets and request disclosure; immediate advice can shape how the case is handled.

• Complexity and evidence — cases often turn on detailed financial investigation, asset tracing, forensic accounting, and multi-jurisdictional structures.

• Serious penalties — The courts treat money laundering as high-harm offending. Custody, large fines, confiscation and business consequences are common. 

• Broader implications — Beyond criminal law, there may be regulatory action, damage to your business or professional standing, immigration consequences and civil-asset risk.

• Funding & cost — Given the complexity, money-laundering cases are expensive; we will advise on funding options early, discuss what is included and ensure transparency.

Our Process & Transparent Fees

1. Initial consultation – We assess your case: suspected offence, stage of investigation, asset risk, likely exposure and funding eligibility.

2. Strategy development & evidence review – We map the facts, review financial/asset evidence, liaise with experts, identify weaknesses in the government’s case.

3. Representation & hearings – We take the lead from police station to bail hearings, court appearances, negotiations or trial strategy.

4. Outcome & next steps – Post-case we advise on sentencing and appeals.We provide clear cost estimates, discuss whether legal aid is available and set out private fee options if required.

FAQs – Money Laundering & Financial Crime UK