Leading Fraud Defence Solicitors London & Manchester
If you or your business face an investigation or prosecution in relation to allegation of fraud or business crime, you need a specialist in your corner. When it comes to criminal defence and the defence of fraud allegations, Olliers is a market leader.
We are ranked as a Top Tier Crime and Fraud Firm by the Legal 500 2026 as well as Chambers Directory 2026. We are a Times Top 200 law firm 2026. We are the current Manchester Legal Awards Crime Team of the Year, an award we have won eight times since 2011 in the space of just over 10 years.
We have a team of over 25 defence lawyers. Eight of our Partners are recommended Legal 500 lawyers, including Matt Corn, Gareth Martin, Toby Wilbraham and Richard Cornthwaite. Our Managing Director, Matthew Claughton is a recent Legal 500 Northern Powerhouse Criminal Lawyer of the Year.
If you or your business face an investigation or a prosecution in relation to fraud or business crime you need a specialist in your corner. Olliers is a market leader in the defence of fraud and business crime investigations and prosecutions. We’re ranked as top tier firm for crime and fraud by The Legal 500 and Chambers Directory, we are a Times Top 200 Law Firm and we’re also Manchester Legal Awards Crime Team of the Year, an award we have won 7 times in just over 10 years, and for my part, I am a recent Legal 500 Northern Powerhouse Criminal Lawyer of the Year. We have a team of over 25 defence lawyers and 8 of our lawyers are recommended by the Legal 500. We act for clients facing investigation by the police, the Serious Fraud Office, HMRC, the Insolvency Service, National Crime Agency, as well as the Financial Conduct Authority, Trading Standards Department and the Health and Safety Executive. The team is well equipped to deal with a rapidly changing landscape which includes the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, the Finance Act 2024 and the Property Digital Asset Bill 2024. We also see fresh HMRC initiatives in relation to tackling tax evasion on the high street and in online retail. Together with a fresh and arguably more aggressive approach from the serious fraud office following the appointment of Nick Ephgrave the new director. We place great emphasis on a proactive approach to the defence work, particularly during the investigation stage of the case, and we always look to nip an investigation in the bud. We’re acutely aware of the importance of reputation management. If you or your company face investigation or prosecution then please contact me, or one of the team, I’m sure we can help.
What is serious fraud?
Why is it important to use a specialist solicitor for serious fraud cases?
Engaging a specialist serious fraud solicitor is crucial when facing complex fraud investigation or prosecution. Serious fraud is often intricate, involving large sums of money, extensive documentation, and a complex legal frameworks. A specialist serious fraud solicitor brings a higher level of insight, tailored strategies, and access to expert resources, which significantly enhances the likelihood of a favourable outcome and helps to manage the complex legal, financial, and personal ramifications involved.
At Olliers we place great emphasis on a proactive approach to the defence work, particularly during the investigation stage of the case, and we always look to nip an investigation in the bud. We’re acutely aware of the importance of reputation management.
The Legal 500 2025
The Legal 500 2025 comments:
“This is a unique practice. Matthew Claughton is a visionary. Tactically superb, manages a legal team to perfection, top-class choice for complex financial crime matters. Highly respected nationally.’
Chambers Guide 2025
The Chambers UK Guide 2025 comments:
“In financial crime, Matthew Corn is extremely astute and always contactable. He works extremely hard for his clients and is very sensible. He is a real star.”
Recent Cases
2025 – Olliers client handed a suspended sentence for role in a multi million pound fraud. Olliers represented a client charged as part of a large scale Trading Standards investigation into a model agency fraud in the sum of over £13million.The client received a 10 month suspended sentence which in the circumstances of the case was an outstanding outcome.
2025: Operation Utah – Newcastle Crown Court; representing defendants charged with a large-scale pension fraud conspiracy. Our client was found not guilty after 20 days of jury deliberation and on day 154 of the trial. The client was charged with a conspiracy to defraud in what was said to be a sophisticated and complex pension liberation fraud. Our client was understandably delighted with the outcome having always maintained his innocence of the charge he faced. In September 2024 anther of our clients was found not guilty at the half-way stage at the Judge’s direction when he concluded that there was no case to answer.
- 2024-2025: Operation Blennoid – Southwark Crown Court; representing a defendant charged with conspiracy to defraud and money laundering.
- 2023: Operation Pollux – Southwark Crown Court. Representing client charged with conspiracy to defraud and money laundering
- 2022: Operation Punicia – investigation into the awarding of contracts by Barratt Homes. Following lengthy investigation no further action taken against Olliers client.
- 2020: Representation of defendant in £30 million investment fraud prosecuted by the Serious Fraud Office.
- 2019: Burnley Crown Court – representation of company directors facing bribery allegations.
- 2019: Instructed in complex pension liberation fraud.
Contact Olliers Solicitors – specialist fraud lawyers
If you or your company face investigation or prosecution please contact Matthew Claughton or one of our team – we can help.
We have offices in both London and Manchester and our specialist team of lawyers can advise and represent you in relation to your case.
It’s crucial to seek advice from a serious fraud solicitor such as Olliers as soon as you become aware of an investigation. Early legal advice is essential. We can provide guidance on dealing with police interviews, asset freezing orders, and your rights during the investigation stage. A specialist solicitor can guide you through each stage, offering strategies to build a robust defence and mitigate potential penalties from the outset. At Olliers we place great emphasis on a proactive approach to serious fraud offences, particularly during the investigation stage of the case, and we always look to nip an investigation in the bud. We’re acutely aware of the importance of reputation management.
The penalties for fraud offences depend on the type and severity of the offence. Convictions may result in imprisonment with fraud sentences ranging up to ten years or more for the most serious offences, particularly those with significant financial losses. Substantial fines are also common, especially in corporate fraud cases. Courts can also seize assets obtained through fraud under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA). Those convicted of fraud in a business capacity can face disqualification from acting as a company director for up to 15 years. A specialist solicitor can work to reduce these penalties or negotiate alternative resolutions, depending on the specifics of the case.
The court handling a fraud case depends on the type and seriousness of the offence. The Magistrates’ Court handles less severe fraud cases, such as minor benefit fraud or low-value false representations. These cases are often resolved more quickly. The Crown Court deals with more serious or complex fraud cases, including high-value corporate fraud, VAT fraud, investment scams, and bribery offences. Crown Courts have greater sentencing powers and generally handle cases investigated by agencies like the Serious Fraud Office (SFO). The type of court will affect case progression, and a specialist solicitor can help determine the best approach based on the likely court jurisdiction.
Several prosecuting agencies handle fraud investigations depending on the type and scale. The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) takes on complex, high-profile fraud cases, often involving corporate crimes. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulates and investigates financial misconduct in regulated industries, and the City of London Police oversee fraud cases nationwide.
London has earned a reputation as a global hub for finance, making it an attractive location not only for legitimate businesses but also for corporate and financial fraud. London and the south-east of England is the biggest fraud hotspot in the UK, with a 170% year-on-year increase in fraud value and a 43% increase in reported fraud cases.
A specialist serious fraud solicitor has in-depth knowledge of complex fraud legislation and extensive experience with agencies like the SFO and FCA. They can prepare a tailored defence strategy, protect your rights, and may secure reduced penalties. Specialist solicitors are also experienced in navigating complex financial documentation and legal procedures, which is essential in serious fraud cases.
In fraud cases, authorities can freeze assets under restraint orders to prevent dissipation. This may impact bank accounts, property, or other assets. A specialist serious fraud solicitor can help you challenge a restraint order by applying to vary the order, ensuring access to necessary funds and retaining essential assets.
What sets Olliers apart is the proactive, front footed approach we adopt during a criminal investigation. The Olliers team has considerable experience dealing with applications to vary and discharge restraint orders, they often feature during pre-charge investigations where offences of serious fraud are alleged. The strategy of fighting Restraint Orders often goes hand in hand with the strategy for preventing a prosecution.
The timeline of a fraud investigation varies widely based on case complexity. Simple cases may be resolved within a few months, while serious fraud cases can take several years. An experienced solicitor will work to expedite the process while ensuring a robust defence.
The complexity and duration of a fraud case can depend on several factors. Larger and more sophisticated frauds can involve a greater number of transactions, victims, and defendants, making them more complex to investigate and prosecute. Cases with multiple defendants can be more time-consuming as each defendant has their own legal representation and may require separate trials or hearings. Fraud cases often involve complex financial transactions and records that require careful analysis and expert testimony. Defendants may raise complex legal defences, which can prolong the case and increase its complexity. Due to these factors, UK fraud criminal cases can often take years to complete.
Legal aid may be available in serious fraud cases, particularly if your case is serious and complex, and if you meet financial eligibility criteria. Our team at Olliers can assess your eligibility and discuss other funding options, such as agreed fees or payment plans if you prefer to instruct on a privately funded basis.
A Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA) is a legal arrangement that allows a company accused of serious corporate crime, such as fraud, bribery, or corruption, to avoid prosecution by agreeing to meet certain conditions. DPAs are typically used for corporate entities rather than individuals and are seen as a way to resolve cases without going to trial. Under a DPA, the prosecution of the company is deferred, meaning it is paused as long as the company fulfills specific obligations set out in the agreement. The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has used DPAs in high-profile cases involving companies accused of bribery or corruption. For example, a major engineering firm agreed to a DPA, paying substantial fines and implementing strict compliance measures to settle bribery allegations without facing prosecution. DPAs provide a middle ground where companies take responsibility and undergo reform without the full repercussions of a criminal conviction, provided they strictly adhere to the agreement’s terms.
Fraud articles
Complete the form below and we will contact you
Manchester
Head Office
- 0161 8341515
- info@olliers.com
- Fourth Floor, 44 Peter Street, Manchester, M2 5GP
Leading Fraud Defence Solicitors London & Manchester
If you or your business face an investigation or prosecution in relation to allegation of fraud or business crime, you need a specialist in your corner. When it comes to criminal defence and the defence of fraud allegations, Olliers is a market leader.
We are ranked as a Top Tier Crime and Fraud Firm by the Legal 500 2025 as well as Chambers Directory 2025. We are a Times Top 200 law firm. We are the current Manchester Legal Awards Crime Team of the Year, an award we have won seven times since 2011 in the space of just over 10 years.
We have a team of over 25 defence lawyers. Eight of our Partners are recommended Legal 500 lawyers, including Matt Corn, Gareth Martin, Toby Wilbraham and Richard Cornthwaite. Our Managing Director, Matthew Claughton is a recent Legal 500 Northern Powerhouse Criminal Lawyer of the Year.
If you or your business face an investigation or a prosecution in relation to fraud or business crime you need a specialist in your corner. Olliers is a market leader in the defence of fraud and business crime investigations and prosecutions. We’re ranked as top tier firm for crime and fraud by The Legal 500 and Chambers Directory, we are a Times Top 200 Law Firm and we’re also Manchester Legal Awards Crime Team of the Year, an award we have won 7 times in just over 10 years, and for my part, I am a recent Legal 500 Northern Powerhouse Criminal Lawyer of the Year. We have a team of over 25 defence lawyers and 8 of our lawyers are recommended by the Legal 500. We act for clients facing investigation by the police, the Serious Fraud Office, HMRC, the Insolvency Service, National Crime Agency, as well as the Financial Conduct Authority, Trading Standards Department and the Health and Safety Executive. The team is well equipped to deal with a rapidly changing landscape which includes the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, the Finance Act 2024 and the Property Digital Asset Bill 2024. We also see fresh HMRC initiatives in relation to tackling tax evasion on the high street and in online retail. Together with a fresh and arguably more aggressive approach from the serious fraud office following the appointment of Nick Ephgrave the new director. We place great emphasis on a proactive approach to the defence work, particularly during the investigation stage of the case, and we always look to nip an investigation in the bud. We’re acutely aware of the importance of reputation management. If you or your company face investigation or prosecution then please contact me, or one of the team, I’m sure we can help.
Key areas of fraud specialism:
What is serious fraud?
Why is it important to use a specialist solicitor for serious fraud cases?
Engaging a specialist serious fraud solicitor is crucial when facing complex fraud investigation or prosecution. Serious fraud is often intricate, involving large sums of money, extensive documentation, and a complex legal frameworks. A specialist serious fraud solicitor brings a higher level of insight, tailored strategies, and access to expert resources, which significantly enhances the likelihood of a favourable outcome and helps to manage the complex legal, financial, and personal ramifications involved.
At Olliers we place great emphasis on a proactive approach to the defence work, particularly during the investigation stage of the case, and we always look to nip an investigation in the bud. We’re acutely aware of the importance of reputation management.
The Legal 500 2025
The Legal 500 2025 comments:
“This is a unique practice. Matthew Claughton is a visionary. Tactically superb, manages a legal team to perfection, top-class choice for complex financial crime matters. Highly respected nationally.’
Chambers Guide 2025
The Chambers UK Guide 2025 comments:
“In financial crime, Matthew Corn is extremely astute and always contactable. He works extremely hard for his clients and is very sensible. He is a real star.”
Recent Cases
- 2025: Operation Utah – Newcastle Crown Court; representing defendants charged with a large-scale pension fraud conspiracy. Our client was found not guilty after 20 days of jury deliberation and on day 154 of the trial. The client was charged with a conspiracy to defraud in what was said to be a sophisticated and complex pension liberation fraud. Our client was understandably delighted with the outcome having always maintained his innocence of the charge he faced. In September 2024 anther of our clients was found not guilty at the half-way stage at the Judge’s direction when he concluded that there was no case to answer.
- 2024-2025: Operation Blennoid – Southwark Crown Court; representing a defendant charged with conspiracy to defraud and money laundering.
- 2023: Operation Pollux – Southwark Crown Court. Representing client charged with conspiracy to defraud and money laundering
- 2022: Operation Punicia – investigation into the awarding of contracts by Barratt Homes. Following lengthy investigation no further action taken against Olliers client.
- 2020: Representation of defendant in £30 million investment fraud prosecuted by the Serious Fraud Office.
- 2019: Burnley Crown Court – representation of company directors facing bribery allegations.
- 2019: Instructed in complex pension liberation fraud.
Contact Olliers Solicitors – specialist fraud lawyers
If you or your company face investigation or prosecution please contact Matthew Claughton or one of our team – we can help.
We have offices in both London and Manchester and our specialist team of lawyers can advise and represent you in relation to your case.
It’s crucial to seek advice from a serious fraud solicitor such as Olliers as soon as you become aware of an investigation. Early legal advice is essential. We can provide guidance on dealing with police interviews, asset freezing orders, and your rights during the investigation stage. A specialist solicitor can guide you through each stage, offering strategies to build a robust defence and mitigate potential penalties from the outset. At Olliers we place great emphasis on a proactive approach to serious fraud offences, particularly during the investigation stage of the case, and we always look to nip an investigation in the bud. We’re acutely aware of the importance of reputation management.
The penalties for fraud offences depend on the type and severity of the offence. Convictions may result in imprisonment with fraud sentences ranging up to ten years or more for the most serious offences, particularly those with significant financial losses. Substantial fines are also common, especially in corporate fraud cases. Courts can also seize assets obtained through fraud under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA). Those convicted of fraud in a business capacity can face disqualification from acting as a company director for up to 15 years. A specialist solicitor can work to reduce these penalties or negotiate alternative resolutions, depending on the specifics of the case.
The court handling a fraud case depends on the type and seriousness of the offence. The Magistrates’ Court handles less severe fraud cases, such as minor benefit fraud or low-value false representations. These cases are often resolved more quickly. The Crown Court deals with more serious or complex fraud cases, including high-value corporate fraud, VAT fraud, investment scams, and bribery offences. Crown Courts have greater sentencing powers and generally handle cases investigated by agencies like the Serious Fraud Office (SFO). The type of court will affect case progression, and a specialist solicitor can help determine the best approach based on the likely court jurisdiction.
Several prosecuting agencies handle fraud investigations depending on the type and scale. The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) takes on complex, high-profile fraud cases, often involving corporate crimes. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulates and investigates financial misconduct in regulated industries, and the City of London Police oversee fraud cases nationwide.
London has earned a reputation as a global hub for finance, making it an attractive location not only for legitimate businesses but also for corporate and financial fraud. London and the south-east of England is the biggest fraud hotspot in the UK, with a 170% year-on-year increase in fraud value and a 43% increase in reported fraud cases.
A specialist serious fraud solicitor has in-depth knowledge of complex fraud legislation and extensive experience with agencies like the SFO and FCA. They can prepare a tailored defence strategy, protect your rights, and may secure reduced penalties. Specialist solicitors are also experienced in navigating complex financial documentation and legal procedures, which is essential in serious fraud cases.
In fraud cases, authorities can freeze assets under restraint orders to prevent dissipation. This may impact bank accounts, property, or other assets. A specialist serious fraud solicitor can help you challenge a restraint order by applying to vary the order, ensuring access to necessary funds and retaining essential assets.
What sets Olliers apart is the proactive, front footed approach we adopt during a criminal investigation. The Olliers team has considerable experience dealing with applications to vary and discharge restraint orders, they often feature during pre-charge investigations where offences of serious fraud are alleged. The strategy of fighting Restraint Orders often goes hand in hand with the strategy for preventing a prosecution.
The timeline of a fraud investigation varies widely based on case complexity. Simple cases may be resolved within a few months, while serious fraud cases can take several years. An experienced solicitor will work to expedite the process while ensuring a robust defence.
The complexity and duration of a fraud case can depend on several factors. Larger and more sophisticated frauds can involve a greater number of transactions, victims, and defendants, making them more complex to investigate and prosecute. Cases with multiple defendants can be more time-consuming as each defendant has their own legal representation and may require separate trials or hearings. Fraud cases often involve complex financial transactions and records that require careful analysis and expert testimony. Defendants may raise complex legal defences, which can prolong the case and increase its complexity. Due to these factors, UK fraud criminal cases can often take years to complete.
Legal aid may be available in serious fraud cases, particularly if your case is serious and complex, and if you meet financial eligibility criteria. Our team at Olliers can assess your eligibility and discuss other funding options, such as agreed fees or payment plans if you prefer to instruct on a privately funded basis.
A Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA) is a legal arrangement that allows a company accused of serious corporate crime, such as fraud, bribery, or corruption, to avoid prosecution by agreeing to meet certain conditions. DPAs are typically used for corporate entities rather than individuals and are seen as a way to resolve cases without going to trial. Under a DPA, the prosecution of the company is deferred, meaning it is paused as long as the company fulfills specific obligations set out in the agreement. The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has used DPAs in high-profile cases involving companies accused of bribery or corruption. For example, a major engineering firm agreed to a DPA, paying substantial fines and implementing strict compliance measures to settle bribery allegations without facing prosecution. DPAs provide a middle ground where companies take responsibility and undergo reform without the full repercussions of a criminal conviction, provided they strictly adhere to the agreement’s terms.
Fraud articles
Complete the form below and we will contact you
Manchester
Head Office
- 0161 8341515
- info@olliers.com
- Fourth Floor, 44 Peter Street, Manchester, M2 5GP