Health and Safety
Understanding and complying with health and safety legislation can be challenging and stressful. The sheer volume of complex regulations organisations and individuals must follow means that inadvertent breaches are not uncommon. We know regulatory investigations and enforcement action can be incredibly disruptive to business operations and reputations.
At Harold & McCormack Law, we specialise in providing comprehensive legal advice to ensure all corners of compliance for your business and its people are covered. With decades of experience managing regulatory issues, we are here to help you prevent breaches, avoid severe penalties and protect your interests.
If you are subject to an investigation, we provide support to safeguard your rights and minimise any resulting impact. Our team is experienced in representing clients throughout the process, including advising on corrective measures to prevent further legal issues, handling statutory notices, and managing media attention.
If you are facing prosecution, we shall act quickly to prepare a robust defence and provide you with quality court representation.
We can support with…
Consumer Protection
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At Harold & McCormack Law, we provide expert legal advice and representation in all matters relating to the enforcement of Consumer Protection and Trading Standards law. Whether you are a business or an individual facing an investigation, our experienced solicitors are here to help you navigate regulatory enforcement action with confidence and clarity.
We advise and represent individuals, companies, and public bodies in a wide range of areas, including:
- Trading standards investigations
- Product liability issues
- Unfair commercial practices
- Misleading advertising and labelling
- E-commerce and distance selling regulations
- Criminal enforcement
Why choose Harold & McCormack Law
- Specialist Legal Expertise – Our team has in-depth knowledge of consumer protection law and enforcement.
- Tailored Advice – We understand the commercial and reputational stakes and provide bespoke guidance for both businesses and individuals.
- Proactive Defence – We act fast to protect your business and limit disruption.
- Nationwide Representation – We serve clients across England and Wales with discretion and professionalism.
Who we help
- Businesses – Retailers, manufacturers, service providers and importers.
- Individuals – under investigation or at risk of enforcement action.
Time is critical. Early legal advice can prevent enforcement action and reputational harm.
Corporate and Director’s Liability
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At Harold & McCormack Law, we provide expert legal advice and defence for company directors, executives and corporate entities facing regulatory or criminal action. Whether you are under investigation, have been charged or are looking to mitigate future risk, our specialist solicitors will guide you through the complexities of corporate accountability.
Understanding corporate and director liability
Modern regulatory environments place increasing scrutiny on directors and businesses. You may be held personally liable for actions taken on behalf of the company, or for failures in oversight or compliance.
We advise on a wide range of issues, including:
- Directors’ Duties and Breaches (Companies Act 2006)
- Corporate Manslaughter and Gross Negligence
- Health and Safety Prosecutions
- Fraud & Financial Misconduct
- Environmental Offences
- Regulatory Compliance
- Disqualification Proceedings
- Internal Investigations and Whistleblowing
Why choose Harold & McCormack Law
- Specialist Corporate Defence Team – Lawyers experienced in high-stakes criminal litigation and regulatory defence
- Commercially Minded – We understand the pressures of leadership and work discreetly to protect your business and reputation
- Proactive Compliance Advice – Prevention is key. We help you stay ahead of regulation and avoid enforcement action
- Discreet, Strategic Representation – We act quickly and confidentially to protect directors, shareholders and brand reputation
Facing director liability or regulatory investigation?
Do not face it alone. Allegations against a director or company can have far-reaching consequences. The right legal team can mean the difference between resolution and reputational ruin.
Corporate Internal Investigations
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At Harold & McCormack Law, we provide discreet, strategic legal support to companies conducting internal investigations. Whether you are responding to whistleblower allegations, regulatory scrutiny, or suspected misconduct, we help you manage legal risk, preserve integrity and protect your organisation’s reputation.
Why conduct an internal investigation
Internal investigations are essential when concerns arise about:
- Fraud, Bribery, or Corruption
- Employee Misconduct or Harassment
- Regulatory Non-Compliance
- Whistleblower Allegations
- Breach of Internal Policies
- Financial Irregularities
- Cybersecurity or Data Breaches
Handled poorly, these issues can escalate into legal action, regulatory penalties or serious reputational harm. Early legal involvement ensures investigations are forensic, evidence-based, impartial, and transparent.
Who we advise
- Company boards of directors
- In-house legal and compliance teams
- HR and risk management departments
A discreet, legally sound approach
Investigations often involve sensitive personnel issues, high-level decision-making, or privileged information. Our solicitors ensure:
- Legal privilege is preserved as appropriate
- Confidentiality is strictly maintained
- Regulatory obligations are met
- Next steps are clearly advised
Our Internal Investigation Services
We support companies across all sectors with:
- Independent Investigation Planning and Oversight
- Interviewing Employees and Witnesses
- Evidence Review and Digital Forensics
- Reporting Findings to Boards or Regulators
- Whistleblower Response and Protection
- Regulatory Disclosure Advice (e.g. FCA, SFO, ICO)
Whether you are a multinational or a growing SME, we tailor our approach to your risk profile, reporting structures and objectives.
Why choose Harold & McCormack Law
- Experienced in complex investigations – Including multi-agency cases
- Regulatory expertise – Skilled in handling SFO, FCA, ICO, and HMRC concerns
- Protection of your brand and culture – We resolve issues while minimising disruption
- Proactive risk management – We don’t just uncover problems; we help prevent recurrence
Corporate Manslaughter
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At Harold & McCormack Law, we provide robust legal representation for companies under investigation following a fatality at work. A corporate manslaughter case is amongst the most serious allegations a business can face, with serious legal, financial and reputational risks.
If your organisation is under investigation following a workplace fatality, our experienced solicitors will act fast to protect your legal position and guide you through the process.
What is Corporate Manslaughter
Under the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007, a company or organisation can be found guilty if a person’s death results from a gross breach of a duty of care due to the way activities were managed or organised.
Investigations are typically triggered by:
- Fatal accidents in the workplace
- Construction site or industrial accidents
- Failings in health and safety policies
- Deaths in custody or care environments
- Transport or logistics-related fatalities
Prosecutions are usually brought by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) following investigations by the police and Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Why choose Harold & McCormack Law
- Specialist Business Defence Lawyers – Decades of experience in corporate crime and regulatory prosecution work
- Rapid Crisis Response – We act immediately to protect your interests and regain control
- Prevention-Focused – We advise on remedial steps that may mitigate liability or sentence
Act now – early legal advice is critical
A Corporate Manslaughter case can devastate an organisation. Acting early, securing the right representation and expert handling of the investigation are essential to reducing exposure and securing the best possible outcome.
Who may be at risk
While the charge is against the organisation itself, senior leaders can still face:
- Individual prosecution for gross negligence manslaughter or related health and safety offences
- Director disqualification
- Regulatory enforcement
- Reputational damage and financial penalties
Our role is to protect both the company and its key people from the outset.
Coroners Inquests and Public Inquiries
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We offer the following legal services to assist our clients through various types of inquests and public inquiries:
- Coroner’s Inquest
- Workplace Fatalities
- Road Traffic Accidents
- Healthcare Inquiries
- Police Conduct Inquiries
- Public Health Inquiries
- Public Inquiries
Environmental Protection
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Environmental enforcement in the UK has become increasingly rigorous, with companies and individuals under greater scrutiny from regulatory bodies including the Environment Agency, local authorities, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and Natural Resources Wales. Alleged breaches of environmental law can result in significant penalties, criminal prosecution, and reputational damage.
At Harold and McCormack Law, we advise companies, directors, and employees facing investigation or prosecution for environmental offences. Our experience covers a full spectrum of environmental regulations, with a particular focus on pollution, waste disposal, water contamination, and land management.
Responding to enforcement action
When enforcement agencies launch an investigation, prompt legal advice is critical. Investigations may begin with site inspections, interviews or requests for documentation. We help clients respond effectively to these inquiries, protecting their legal position and ensuring compliance with regulatory obligations.
Whether facing a civil sanction, criminal prosecution, or enforcement notice, we provide legal support throughout the regulatory process. We advise on internal investigations, cooperate with regulators when appropriate, and defend clients robustly in the event of enforcement action.
Key areas of expertise
Our work includes defending allegations of unlawful discharges to land or water, breaches of waste handling and storage regulations, pollution from industrial or agricultural activity, as well as failures to comply with environmental permits or planning conditions.
We support clients with responses to enforcement notices, regulatory interviews, court proceedings, and appeals, always ensuring their rights are protected while working to achieve the most favourable possible outcome.
Protecting operations and reputation
Environmental allegations can quickly escalate and attract negative publicity. We work discreetly and strategically to minimise commercial risk, manage stakeholder concerns, and protect business continuity. Our team understands the operational pressures our clients face and works closely with environmental consultants, engineers, and industry experts to provide comprehensive defence strategies.
Fire Safety
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Legal Support Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (Fire Safety Order) places clear legal responsibilities on duty holders, including employers, building owners, landlords and agents, to ensure management of fire safety risks.
At Harold & McCormack Law, we advise individuals and organisations who are subject to investigation, enforcement action, or prosecution under the Fire Safety legislation. Whether in relation to compliance with fire risk assessment obligations, fire precautions or suspected breaches following an incident, we provide experienced and strategic legal defence.
Who is a Duty holder?
Under the Fire Safety Order, responsibility for compliance lies with the “responsible person.” This includes any party that has control over the premises. The responsible person is expected to take all reasonable steps to reduce fire risks, ensure suitable fire precautions are in place, and maintain fire safety measures on an ongoing basis.
Food Safety
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The UK’s food safety and hygiene regime imposes strict legal duties on food businesses of every size. Whether operating at a local, national or international level, businesses face rigorous oversight from the Food Standards Agency, local Environmental Health Officers, and Trading Standards. Allegations of non-compliance can result in criminal prosecution, business disruption, reputational damage, and loss of consumer confidence.
At Harold & McCormack Law, we have extensive experience advising and defending food businesses and individuals across the sector.
Responding to investigations and enforcement
Investigations into food hygiene breaches often begin following routine inspections, complaints from the public, food poisoning allegations, or contamination incidents. Local authorities and the FSA have wide-ranging enforcement powers, including the ability to serve improvement or prohibition notices, suspend approvals, seize goods, or prosecute offences under the Food Safety Act 1990 and associated regulations.
We act swiftly to help clients respond to inspection outcomes, challenge enforcement notices, and prepare defence strategies in both civil and criminal proceedings. We also advise on voluntary closures, appeals, and reputational management where urgent action is required.
Health and Safety
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Understanding and complying with health and safety legislation can be challenging and stressful. The sheer volume of complex regulations organisations and individuals must follow means that inadvertent breaches are not uncommon. We know regulatory investigations and enforcement action can be incredibly disruptive to business operations and reputations. Read more >
In-house Support
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Tailored Legal Compliance for your Business
We can be retained as a trusted partner to assist with proactive business compliance and provide legal support to in-house teams advising on the legal and operational implications of the law that regulates and impacts their business. Read more >
Judicial Review
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We offer the following legal services to assist our clients through various types of inquests and public inquiries:
- Coroner’s Inquest
- Workplace Fatalities
- Road Traffic Accidents
- Healthcare Inquiries
- Police Conduct Inquiries
- Public Health Inquiries
- Public Inquiries
Police Station
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Anyone arrested or invited for a voluntary interview under caution is entitled to legal advice. Securing specialist legal representation at this early stage is crucial. It can have a significant impact on the outcome of a case, potentially preventing a prosecution altogether.
At Harold and McCormack Law, we offer prompt, strategic advice and robust representation to clients involved in criminal investigations across the full spectrum of offences. We are available 24/7 to attend police stations, ensuring legal protection from the outset.
Why early legal advice matters
Police interviews under caution (commonly referred to as “PACE interviews”) are a pivotal part of any criminal investigation. What is said, or not said, during these interviews can shape the direction of the case.
Our solicitors will:
- Explain the allegations and an individual’s legal rights in plain terms
- Liaise with investigators to obtain disclosure before interview
- Advise whether to answer questions, submit a written statement, or provide no comment
- Provide protection from unlawful or unfair questioning
- Protect an individual’s rights during searches, identification procedures, or bail decisions
We are skilled in managing both voluntary interviews and interviews following arrest, including high-profile and complex investigations.
Voluntary interviews: Don’t go alone
Even if you are not under arrest, a voluntary interview under caution (sometimes called a “Caution Plus 3” interview) is still part of a criminal investigation and should be treated with the same seriousness.
You are entitled to free legal representation, and attending without a lawyer can be a serious mistake. Our early involvement can often clarify misunderstandings or help avoid unnecessary escalation.
Why choose Harold and McCormack Law
We understand that a police interview can be a daunting experience. Our lawyers are calm under pressure and highly experienced in criminal defence. We are trusted by clients to provide:
- Immediate, confidential legal support
- Strategic advice before, during, and after the interview
- Ongoing representation throughout any investigation or prosecution
Reputation & Crisis Management
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Protecting Reputations in a rapidly changing media landscape
In today’s digital age, where news spreads instantly and reputational damage can be long-lasting, effective legal intervention is crucial. At Harold and McCormack Law, we advise individuals and organisations who face reputational threats, whether due to media coverage, online allegations, criminal or regulatory investigations, or other forms of public scrutiny. Read more >
Tailored Legal Solutions
Exceptional legal support is not just about representing clients when things go wrong. We offer proactive advice and solutions you can integrate with minimal disruption to business operations to avoid breaches of the law. We take the time to understand your needs and guide you on the appropriate measures to protect your business and employees.
At Harold & McCormack Law, we recognise that each case is unique. Our team has extensive experience helping businesses and individuals manage complex health and safety matters. Our tailored and reliable services make Harold & McCormack Law your trusted partner for understanding the law and providing support throughout challenging investigations and proceedings.
You can benefit from our free initial consultation, during which we will discuss your concerns, explain the process and identify the next steps. We are available 365 days a year, so you will always feel supported.
Legal Representation at No Cost to You
If you have insurance, it may cover your legal fees for health and safety matters. Our lawyers are well-versed in interpreting policy documents to help you understand the extent of your cover and liaise with your policy provider to support the onboarding process.
Contact us today to ensure you have the best legal team supporting you.