At Eccleston Solicitors, we offer specialist defence representation for individuals and businesses accused of financial wrongdoing. Our team is skilled in analysing vast amounts of documentary, electronic and financial evidence and building strong defence strategies.
Investigations by agencies such as HMRC, the police or the Serious Fraud Office can be daunting. Eccleston Solicitors ensures you have experienced legal support from the very beginning, protecting both your position and your reputation.
Types of Fraud Handled by Eccleston Solicitors
- Benefit fraud
- Tax evasion and HMRC investigations
- Mortgage fraud
- Corporate and commercial fraud
- Investment fraud
- Banking and financial services offences
- Money laundering cases
Our Fraud Defence Service Includes
- Immediate advice following arrest or contact from investigators
- Attendance at Interviews Under Caution
- Detailed analysis of digital and financial records
- Collaboration with forensic accountants
- Defence against restraint and confiscation orders
- Representation in Magistrates’, Crown Court and appeal courts
Eccleston Solicitors focuses on exposing weaknesses in the prosecution case and defending your legal and financial interests at every stage.
Common Questions
What is considered fraud under UK law?
Fraud is a criminal offence involving dishonesty and an intention to make a gain for yourself or another person, or to cause loss or expose another person to the risk of loss.
Common types of fraud include:
- Fraud by false representation
- Fraud by failing to disclose information
- Fraud by abuse of position
- Mortgage and property fraud
- Investment fraud
- Insurance fraud
- Benefit fraud
- Business and corporate fraud
If you are accused of fraud, it is important to obtain legal advice at an early stage, as fraud investigations can have serious consequences for your reputation, finances, and liberty.
What should I do if I am being investigated for fraud or a financial crime?
If you are contacted by the police, an enforcement agency, or another investigating body regarding suspected fraud, you should seek legal advice before providing any formal statement.
A solicitor can:
- Advise you on your rights during an investigation
- Attend voluntary interviews or police interviews with you
- Review the evidence against you
- Identify potential defences or weaknesses in the prosecution case
- Help protect your position from the outset
Early advice can be crucial in preventing matters from escalating unnecessarily.
What are the possible penalties for fraud convictions?
The penalties for fraud depend on the seriousness of the offence, the amount of money involved, the level of planning, and whether there are previous convictions.
Possible consequences can include:
- Fines
- Compensation orders
- Confiscation proceedings
- Community orders
- A custodial sentence
- Professional or reputational damage
In serious cases, fraud allegations can also affect your ability to work in regulated industries or hold certain professional roles.
Can I be prosecuted for fraud if I did not intend to deceive anyone?
Fraud offences generally require the prosecution to prove dishonesty and an intention to make a gain or cause loss (or risk of loss). However, whether someone acted dishonestly can depend on the specific facts and circumstances of the case.
A misunderstanding, mistake, lack of knowledge, or absence of intent may be relevant to your defence.
A specialist fraud solicitor can examine the evidence and advise whether the legal requirements for an offence have been met.
How can a fraud and financial crime solicitor help me?
A specialist solicitor can provide advice and representation throughout the investigation and court process, including:
- Police or voluntary interviews
- Investigations by agencies such as the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), or other authorities
- Restraint and confiscation proceedings
- Prosecution and court hearings
- Negotiating with prosecutors where appropriate
Fraud allegations can be complex and carry serious consequences. Obtaining specialist advice as early as possible can help you understand your options and protect your position.
