Financial Crime: Private Prosecutions | UK Bar

QEB Hollis Whiteman retains its reputation as a leading chambers in the financial crime market, housing an impressive bench of leading silks and juniors experienced in both the prosecution and defence of complex and high-value cases. Members are regularly called upon to represent their clients in investigations into allegations of bribery, corruption and fraud, and are noted for their expert handling of cases involving international elements. Private prosecutions continue to be a key area of strength for the team. The members are described by professional clients as "the go-to set for all financial crime matters," who "provide advice which not only reflects the current legal position but is extremely commercial and anticipate the impact of recent judgments." Recent instructions undertaken by the set's barristers include acting for Glencore's ex-head of oil in SFO prosecution for conspiracy to bribe officials in West Africa to secure favourable deals.

2 Hare Court offers expertise spanning the full gamut of financial crime matters. Members receive regular instructions both from individual and corporate clients across the financial services sector, and are adept at handling cases involving allegations of insider dealing, money laundering, corruption, bribery and fraud. One interviewee reports that their barristers "handle their client's case with meticulous care and skill." Another adds that the set has "great working knowledge of complex areas of business crime." Recently, members represented Mohammed Zina in the FCA investigation and trial concerning insider trading.

Red Lion Chambers has an excellent reputation for financial crime work and houses a strong bench of senior and junior barristers who have experience of acting in complex and high-profile cases. Members act for both the prosecution and the defence and are regularly instructed in international investigations. Cases involving serious allegations of bribery, fraud and corruption are a key area of strength for the set. Additionally, practitioners at the set are adept at handling private prosecutions. Recent work has included defence of a solicitor in a Magic Circle firm, against FCA allegations of insider trading and fraud.