List of Worst Countries for Bribery and Corruption
November 10, 2011 by Lewis Nedas
Transparency International lists the worst twenty-eight countries in the world for bribery and corruption.
See a recent article from BBC News website.
This makes it all the more important for companies doing business in these countries to consult specialist solicitors to advise on anti-bribery measures.
This is governed by UK criminal legislation, and criminal lawyers are the best lawyers to consult in this situation.
Contact enquiries or Jeffrey Lewis, Siobhain Egan.
Stunning Acquittal at the Old Bailey
November 8, 2011 by Lewis Nedas
Danny Barnard, one of our excellent in house advocates, was instructed by the very able Sam Corcoran to represent an individual charged with wounding another using a kitchen knife. The client raised self-defence, stating that the alleged victim had stolen from him in the past, and had entered his property with the intent to steal again. He had behaved so aggressively towards the defendant that he felt that he had no choice other than to brandish the knife. The victim stumbled and fell onto the knife that wounded his cheek. The jury unanimously acquitted him.
Are You the Leaseholder of a Flat?
November 8, 2011 by Lewis Nedas
We have noticed a substantial increase in enquiries relating to applications under the Leasehold Reform, Housing & Urban Development Act 1993. More flat-leaseholders are applying to extend their leases by a further 90 years and substantially increase the value of their property. In these uncertain economic times, it is the correct thing to do.
It is, however, a very technical process and you would be best served to consult experienced specialist lawyers to assist you.
Contact enquiries or Richard McConnell, Barry Hellewell.
SFO Float Idea of Deferred Prosecution Arrangements
November 8, 2011 by Lewis Nedas
In a blaze of recent publicity, Richard Alderman has mooted the idea that the US style deferred prosecution arrangements would be beneficial to the SFO, especially when dealing with bribery investigations.
This will undoubtedly be a controversial move and is unlikely to find favour with the UK Judiciary and the public alike. It will be suggested that these large (often multi-national) companies can simply buy their way out of a prosecution.
The advantages to the SFO are obvious; it will save them huge expensive investigations and possibly allow them to affect the bribery culture of a company through monitoring company systems and processes. It would also decrease the number of high profile prosecutions that have collapsed in the past.
However, these DPAs are not without their difficulties. The SFO must pre-suppose a highly discretionary and subjective process of selecting those companies that will be eligible for DPAs, leading to the question: why some companies and not others? Will there be any judicial intervention at all? Who is going to determine the penalties the company should face? Will the companies be expected to enter the DPA before charges are laid and admit liability then (which would save the SFO large amounts of money)? Will there be any immunity for whistleblowing participants?
This is a very interesting development, especially as it is believed that the SFO have seventeen current bribery investigations.
Wealthy Russians Are Largest Group Of Foreign Nationals Buying Central London Properties
November 7, 2011 by Lewis Nedas
According to a recent article in The Daily Telegraph published on 30 October 2011 wealthy Russians are the largest group of foreign nationals currently buying property in Central London.
We act for many Russian nationals intent upon buying property in the UK and have Russian speaking staff who can assist.
Contact Richard McConnell or Barry Hellewell to discuss in English; or Denis Taylor or enquiries for Russian-only speakers.
Government Considering New Anti-Gang Gun Trade Strategy
November 7, 2011 by Lewis Nedas
The government are considering a new anti-gang gun trade strategy which could have a serious effect on the legitimate firearms industry.
If you are concerned in any way please contact Laura Saunsbury our firearms expert.
HMRC Stamping Down On Stamp Duty Avoidance
November 7, 2011 by Lewis Nedas
See the full news story on the BBC website.
Wealthy Greeks Buying Prime Properties in London
November 7, 2011 by Lewis Nedas
See a recent article in the Telegraph detailing the positive effect on central London prices as a result of wealthy
Greeks buying in London.