Corporate Crime
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Anti-Bribery
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Harold & McCormack Law is a leading UK law firm recognised for its broad-ranging expertise in complex business crime matters, including bribery and corruption. Acting for corporates and individuals across a range of industries, our team provides strategic, discreet and effective representation in investigations, prosecutions, and regulatory action involving the Bribery Act 2010 and related legislation.
What we do
Our anti-bribery and corruption practice covers the full spectrum of issues, including:
- Internal Investigations: Helping organisations uncover and respond to suspected wrongdoing.
- SFO and FCA Investigations: Representing clients under investigation by the Serious Fraud Office, Financial Conduct Authority, and other regulatory bodies.
- Corporate Compliance: Advising on anti-bribery policies, risk assessments, and corporate governance.
- Defence Against Prosecution: Strategic representation in criminal proceedings and negotiations.
- Cross-Border Matters: Handling complex international bribery allegations involving multi-jurisdictional enforcement agencies.
Anti-Competition
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Our services include:
- Immediate response to regulatory action
- Responding to dawn raids and seizure of materials
- Preserving legal privilege and protecting business continuity
- Section 26 and 27 notice responses
- Engaging with regulators at an early stage to manage exposure
- Navigating criminal liability and reputational risk
- Strategic advice during CMA and SFO investigations
- Defence in cartel and bid-rigging investigations
- Representation at interviews under caution (PACE)
- Applications for leniency and settlement
- Director disqualification proceedings
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.
Data Protection
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In an era where personal data is a highly valuable asset and potential liability, data protection law is central to how individuals and businesses operate. Whether an individual is concerned about misuse of personal data, an SME handling sensitive customer information, or a corporate navigating a complex compliance regime, understanding the legal obligations involved is essential.
At Harold and McCormack Law, our privacy and data protection lawyers provide clear, strategic legal advice to clients across a wide range of sectors. We assist with data breaches, subject access requests, and regulatory investigations.
Key legislation we advise on
Our data protection specialists are well-versed in the following areas:
- The UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), which governs the lawful processing of personal data, individual rights, privacy notices, consent requirements and international data transfers.
- The Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA) supplements the UK GDPR with specific national provisions, including those relevant to criminal justice, journalism, research, and employment. We provide legal advice to individuals and organisations on compliance with these provisions.
- The Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA) sets out the public’s right to access information held by public authorities. We advise on making and responding to FOIA requests and on applying exemptions.
- The Environmental Information Regulations 2004 (EIR) provide public access to environmental information held by authorities and other relevant bodies. We assist requesters to navigating the EIR.
Comprehensive legal services
We provide tailored advice on GDPR compliance, including lawful data processing practices, appropriate management of data sharing and retention.
We regularly assist clients in handling complex Subject Access Requests (SARs), ensuring responses meet legal standards and protect sensitive interests. In the event of a data breach or regulatory inquiry, we act swiftly to manage risk and regulatory exposure.
Why choose Harold and McCormack Law?
Our team provides practical legal support while ensuring data rights are respected and upheld. Whether responding to a regulator, managing internal processes or dealing with a live incident, our expertise ensures our clients are supported at every stage.
Dawn Raids
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A dawn raid is the unannounced arrival of enforcement officers, often during the early hours of the morning, at business or residential premises, the purpose of which is to execute a search warrant or similar legal authority. It can be the first indication that an investigation is being carried out by authorities such as the Serious Fraud Office, Financial Conduct Authority, HMRC, Competition and Markets Authority, or National Crime Agency.
For those involved, the experience is highly disruptive, often distressing and carries significant legal and reputational risks. The actions taken in the first few minutes of a dawn raid can have long-lasting consequences.
Immediate legal support is essential
In the event of a dawn raid, early legal intervention is critical. Investigators may seek access to computers, mobile phones, files and documents. They might copy or remove data, require the provision of information from employees, and/or request interviews under caution.
Harold and McCormack Law provides immediate, practical guidance to ensure our clients’ rights are protected and that the legal process is followed properly. Our team has extensive experience in advising during active searches.
Why do dawn raids happen?
Dawn raids are commonly triggered by suspected financial or corporate misconduct. These may include allegations of fraud, bribery, or corruption, tax evasion, customs offences, market abuse or insider trading, anti-competitive behaviour such as price-fixing or cartel activity or regulatory non-compliance.
Director Disqualifications
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At Harold & McCormack Law, we understand the serious professional and personal impact that director disqualification proceedings can have. Whether you have received a Section 16 Letter or are under investigation, our experienced solicitors are dedicated to protecting your position, reputation, and ability to continue operating.
What Is Director Disqualification?
Director disqualification is a legal process designed to ban individuals from acting as a director or being involved in the management of a company for a specified period, typically ranging from 2 to 15 years. Common grounds for disqualification include:
- Failure to keep accurate accounting records
- Trading in contravention of insolvency rules
- Misuse of company funds or assets
- Non-compliance with statutory returns (e.g. VAT, accounts)
- Breaches of fiduciary duties
- Fraud, misrepresentation, or other misconduct
Given the potentially long-lasting ramifications, early and experienced legal guidance is crucial.
Advice on Investigations and Section 16 Letters
Receiving a Section 16 Letter signals that the Insolvency Service considers your conduct to be serious enough to warrant you being unfit to hold the role of director. We respond promptly on your behalf, prepare a robust defence or negotiate a potential settlement to avoid prolonged court proceedings.
Challenging Disqualification Proceedings
If the case proceeds to court, our team provides comprehensive representation, including detailed submissions, evidence gathering and persuasive advocacy at court.
Negotiating Director Disqualification Undertakings
In some cases, offering a disqualification undertaking may help avoid a contested litigation process. We advise on the benefits and risks of this approach, negotiating to secure the shortest possible disqualification term.
Applications for Permission to Act as a Director (Section 17 CDDA)
If disqualified, you might still need to continue in a management role to safeguard your business interests. We can assist by applying to the court under Section 17 CDDA to safeguard the interests of your business during the disqualification period.
Our team can represent a wide range of clients across the UK, including:
- Directors facing investigations after insolvency or misconduct allegations
- Individuals accused of unfit conduct
- Directors of liquidated companies
- Entrepreneurs managing multiple businesses
- Professionals in regulated sectors such as finance, law, and care
No matter your circumstances, we aim to preserve your ability to lead and mitigate any reputational or financial damage.
Director disqualification matters involve strict deadlines and complex regulatory requirements. Early action is essential to protect your rights and professional future. At Harold & McCormack Law, our team is ready to provide prompt, strategic legal advice.
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.
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 >
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
Product Liability and 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.
SFO Investigations
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If you are under investigation by the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) or concerned about potential exposure to bribery and corruption offences, you need specialist legal defence from a team with extensive experience in corporate crime.
At Harold & McCormack Law, we offer strategic, discreet and expert legal representation for individuals and businesses facing SFO investigations. From dawn raids to court proceedings, we protect your rights, reputation and commercial interests at every stage.
Experts in SFO, bribery and corruption defence
We are recognised for providing legal defence in SFO bribery investigations, corruption prosecutions, and corporate fraud inquiries.
Our team represents
- SMEs and large corporations
- Business owners and entrepreneurs
- Company directors and C-suite executives
- Senior employees and compliance officers
Legal services for SFO and corporate crime investigations
Our legal team advises on all aspects of bribery, corruption and serious fraud matters, including:
- SFO dawn raids and regulatory searches
- Bribery Act 2010 compliance and defence strategies
- Responding to Section 2 Notices
- Representation during interviews under caution (PACE interviews)
- Internal corporate investigations
- Deferred Prosecution Agreements (DPAs)
- Self-reporting to the SFO or FCA
- Defence against prosecution for corporate or individual offences
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 >
Contact our Criminal Defence team today.
Our commitment to excellence means we are dedicated to providing high-level support and advice to our clients, whatever their circumstances.
We offer an initial, complimentary consultation to discuss your case, outline the process, and determine the next steps. Our firm is available 365 days a year, providing continuous support during challenging times.
Contact us today to secure the best criminal defence team for your case.