Money Laundering, Proceeds of Crime and Restraint Orders

It is usual for possession with intent to supply drug offences and some fraud offences to run hand in hand with money laundering offences and also as a result of a conviction for supplying drugs, confiscation proceedings will follow.

The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 creates three offences relating to money laundering.  It is illegal to 1) conceal, disguise, convert, transfer or remove from the jurisdiction criminal property 2) facilitate the acquisition, retention, use or control of criminal property, and 3) acquire, use or possess criminal property.  The definition of criminal property has a wide interpretation.  If you are being investigated regarding a money laundering offence, you should consult a Solicitor at an early stage of the investigation, especially as some of your money, bank account and property could become subject to a restraint order, so that you cannot have access to those assets. This can be particularly stressful if for example the money seized is not part of any criminal activity. We represent clients regularly in money laundering offences and also proceeds of crime. We use specialist Barristers and can instruct financial experts if necessary, to ensure you have the best defence and more likelihood of having your assets returned.