We provide expert legal defence advice and defence representation, throughout the country, to those suspected of, or charged with, offences involving VAT fraud, including Carousel fraud, otherwise known as Missing Trader Intra Community Fraud (MTIC Fraud).
VAT fraud and Carousel fraud frequently involve very complex intra company trading arrangements between UK and European Union based companies, involving goods, such as computer chips and mobile phones. Such frauds are often referred to as computer chip frauds or mobile phone frauds with a carousel of companies involved – hence carousel fraud.
Enquiries by HM Revenue and Customs and other investigative bodies into Carousel fraud and VAT fraud are frequently lengthy and wide-ranging involving the activities of many companies and individuals. Prosecutions for Carousel fraud and VAT fraud are long and complex and require expert legal defence representation. Conviction frequently results in substantial sentences of imprisonment and orders for confiscation under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
Obtaining expert defence solicitors at an early stage is vital. Public funding (Legal Aid) may be available for legal defence representation in Carousel fraud and VAT fraud cases.
This firm is repeatedly asked to assist clients who have already, at some time, during the course of an investigation or Court proceedings instructed Solicitors. We are used to dealing with such enquiries and advising as to the transfer of a case from previous Solicitors to this practice. It is important to those the subject of an investigation or prosecution, that they are confident in the Solicitors that they instruct and that they consider those that act for them are doing everything they possibly can to assist.
We offer free initial legal advice, either over the phone, via e-mail or face to face if required. Please contact us using the Contact Us link or by asking our solicitors a question using the simple form above. Our initial advice is free. You can also contact us via e-mail, text message or by telephoning us on 0800 988 5134.
Diversion Fraud
The firm has significant and long running experience of representation in diversion fraud cases involving wines, spirits, beers, cigarettes and other goods in relation to both inward and outward diversion fraud relating to dutiable goods. Such prosecutions, brought by HMR&C, are detailed and complex, often involving lengthy investigations and prosecutions including applications under POCA.
Since 2003 the practice has been providing advice and representation to several clients in respect of the Metropolitan Police Investigation (Operation Gestalt) which centres on the investigation and prosecution of cases by HMC&E involving approximately 50 diversion fraud case prosecutions having some involvement in the movement of goods through the London City Bond.
Diversion fraud enquiries may involve the owners of the goods, their professional agents, the operators of storage facilities, including bonded warehouses, and hauliers and their drivers involved in the movement of goods.
MTIC or Carousel Fraud
We provide expert legal defence advice and defence representation, throughout the country, to those suspected of, or charged with, offences involving VAT fraud, including Carousel fraud, otherwise known as Missing Trader Intra Community Fraud (MTIC Fraud).
Carousel fraud and VAT fraud frequently involve very complex intra company trading arrangements between UK and European Union based companies, involving goods, such as computer chips and mobile phones. Such frauds are often referred to as computer chip frauds or mobile phone frauds with a carousel of companies involved – hence carousel fraud.
Enquiries by HM Revenue and Customs and other investigative bodies into Carousel fraud and VAT fraud are frequently lengthy and wide-ranging involving the activities of many companies and individuals. Prosecutions for Carousel fraud and VAT fraud are long and complex and require expert legal defence representation. Conviction frequently results in substantial sentences of imprisonment and orders for confiscation under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
Obtaining expert defence solicitors at an early stage is vital. Public funding (Legal Aid) may be available for legal defence representation in Carousel fraud and VAT fraud cases.