Bribery defence solicitors

Bribery Act 2010 investigations – how we can help

Since the Bribery Act 2010 came into force, there has been a sharpened focus on investigations and, where deemed serious enough, prosecutions of both individuals and organisations connected with bribery offences. Hempsons’ bribery defence solicitors are here to help you if you find yourself involved or implicated in such an investigation. Whether it is an investigation by the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) against a person or persons involved with allegations of corruption, or companies under scrutiny for failing to prevent bribery, the potential fallout is significant and it is therefore essential to secure advice from a bribery defence lawyer as early as possible.

The definition and scope of bribery offences has widened since the Bribery Act 2010 came into force, with several high profile cases showing how seriously such offences as now treated. Often, the biggest pressure on companies is in identifying inappropriate behaviour on the part of employees and agents and knowing what to do if bribery and corruption are suspected. It is therefore important to secure advice on how to prevent an offence occurring, how to conduct an internal investigation and what action to take. Hempsons’ bribery defence solicitors can provide you with that preventative advice, to help you nip an issue in the bud before it escalates.

If you are under investigation, whether by the police or, for example, the Serious Fraud Office or NHS Counter Fraud Authority, we can assist you from the outset, all the way to trial if necessary. Our criminal defence solicitors are adept and highly-experienced at guiding clients through police interviews, which are vital in shaping how (and whether) a case proceeds and its ultimate outcome. If you or your company are charged with an offence, we can represent you at the Magistrates’ Court and if it comes to a Crown Court trial, we have longstanding relationships with many of the UK’s leading barristers, so you can rest assured of receiving the highest quality, most robust defence possible.

If you need advice, guidance, support or representation in relation to a bribery allegation, contact us today.

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Success for Adam Smith as client acquitted of bribery charges

On Friday 4 March, Mr Staunton was acquitted of the two bribery charges brought against him, related to the placement of medicines within the NHS. Assisted by trainee solicitor Clara Gogarty, and instructing Fiona Horlick QC of Outer Temple Chambers, this was the culmination of a six-week trial at Southampton Crown Court.

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  • Chambers UK 2023
    “Adam Smith possesses a wealth of expertise in defending clients facing GDC, GMC and HCPC investigations into allegations of inappropriate behaviour, dishonesty and sexual assault. He is also noted for his representation of police officers facing claims of misconduct.”
  • Chambers UK 2023
    “He is a super solicitor – he’s incredibly organised and has a very calm manner with clients and litigation. His drafting and communication skills are excellent.”
  • Legal 500 2022
    “The tireless and very clever Katherine Sheldrick is highly recommended for any person facing professional discipline proceedings, and has been a first choice for many for several years.”
  • Legal 500 2022
    “Katherine Sheldrick is outstanding; a master of the fine detail.”
  • Legal 500 2022
    “Tania Francis is a qualified doctor and brings an invaluable perspective to any defence team.”