Fast Moving Developments in Russian Extraditions

The growing number of extraditions from the EU to Russia has recently been the subject of international news.

We have a highly skilled and experienced team of extradition lawyers who deal with these cases. We also have Russian speaking staff and instruct highly regarded specialist barristers.

For further information please see RT’s coverage at http://rt.com/Top_News/2009-11-25/europe-extradites-russian-suspects.html

Polish Extradition Requests Increase

An interesting article in this week’s Spectator (2^nd-8^th January 2010, p.23) highlights the extraordinary increase of extradition/Euro-warrant requests made particularly by Poland (though other Eastern European countries make similar requests).

This has caused enormous concern amongst legal professionals who have strong misgivings about the quality of justice afforded to arrestees as a result of these fast track extradition requests.

It is expected that from April 2010 the number of these extradition/Euro-warrants will increase threefold.

We have an excellent, high quality, dedicated team of extradition specialists and use the best Polish/Eastern European interpreters.

Concerns About Prosecution Bonuses

An article in The Times (05/10/09) highlights long held views by defence lawyers that confiscation targets set by the Home Office (ASSET RECOVERY INCENTIVISATION SCHEME) and bonuses paid to staff in prosecuting/investigative agencies have resulted in miscarriages of justice. Particular focus centres on those convicted of  revenue/VAT offences and those convicted of tobacco smuggling. It seems that over 4,000 files are currently being reviewed by RCPO – it is believed that confisaction procedings have been brought unlawfully against each of these individuals.

It is vital that if you are facing a tax/VAT/criminal investigation/proceedings you MUST ensure that you have instructed lawyers who are experienced in this field.

Contact enquiries or Jeffrey Lewis.

Recent Arrests on Carbon Trading Activity

Since the recent highly publicised arrests of individuals working within the carbon trading markets, many individuals are justifiably concerned about issues relating to the carbon emissions market and VAT issues.

Contact Jeffrey Lewis or any of our fraud team if you require advice.

Green Shoots of Recovery in the North London Property Market

At last some good news for those seeking to buy or sell in North London: it seems that sales and house prices are picking up.

Contact our very popular Richard McConnell, Head of our Property Department.

Newly Establised Tax Tribunal

The Government has established the Tax Chamber, a newly established tribunal which will deal with tax disputes. This  coincides with HRMC’s latest tax amnesty in relation to off-shore deposits. This amnesty allows off-shore account holders to pay a maximum penalty of 10% and thereby avoid either prosecution or ‘naming and shaming’ the individual or company concerned.

Inheritance Tax – Latest Developments

The Government has recently announced that 3% interest will be attached to outstanding / unpaid inheritance tax liabilities to HRMC. The insurance industry now has a range of insurance products which will pay out to meet any such liability.

Contact Prue Abrahams, Head of our Private Client (Wills and Probate) Department.

MTIC Fraud in Another Guise?

Seven people have been arrested in relation to an alleged MTIC (carousel) fraud as a result of a longstanding joint investigation by HRMC and Europol. It concerns credit swaps in the European Union carbon emissions credit market.

These arrests mark a reversal in policy by HRMC, who until recently have sought to deal with MTIC frauds by way of VAT tribunals.

MTIC frauds have, historically, been difficult for the Crown to prosecute successfully. They do not, however, present any problems for our team of defence specialists who have a tremendous record of success in this area. Contact Jeffrey Lewis.

Huge Mortgage Frauds Uncovered

Chelsea Building Society has revealed that it has lost £41 million as a result of suspected frauds perpetrated by some of its buy to let  borrowers.

We have a very approachable, experienced fraud defence team who can assist anyone investigated or prosecuted for such matters. Contact Jeffrey Lewis.

DPP Advocates New Ethos at CPS

Keir Starmer QC in The Times (23/07/09) advocates a new approach to be taken by the CPS, following the decision to merge the CPS with RCPO to form one cohesive prosecuting agency. The DPP believes that the CPS should present itself as a service, rather than as part of the Criminal Justice System; that there should be a move away from the current fixation upon targets for the CPS, and that means a change  in their approach to delivery.

He calls for core quality standards; more accountability and transparency of decision making and states that approach should be apparent throughout the whole Criminal Justice System.

Read the full article at: http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/columnists/guest_contributors/article6723781.ece

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