Peter is a partner in one of the general commercial litigation groups and, in addition to general/fraud commercial litigation, specialises in contentious regulatory work including conducting and managing internal investigations, either commenced by the company itself following the discovery of an internal problem, or commenced as a result of an external investigation by the Serious Fraud Office, HM Revenue & Customs, DTI and the FSA. He also advises on all aspects associated with compliance with the relevant money laundering provisions systems and controls to prevent financial crime. A large part of Peter's practice entails advising on criminal liability issues, in particular, anti-corruption policies and procedures, as well as managing and conducting criminal investigations and proceedings.
Credentials
Criminal/Corruption Investigations
Has conducted a large number of investigations, including providing advice in relation to possible criminal liability, civil litigation and civil recovery options and the investigatory tools available. In addition has experience in managing and co-ordinating teams of lawyers conducting investigations in a number of jurisdictions, including the Far East and China and providing advice in relation to the employment issues, Human Rights Act issues and Data Protection Act issues which arise.
Money Laundering
Advising various clients on both contentious and non-contentious aspects of the UK anti-money laundering regime including steps required to comply with the FSA's requirements, the Money Laundering Regulations and substantive law on money laundering including issues arising on the making of a disclosure to SOCA and subsequent enquiries which should be made. Has also advised on civil liability issues relating to money laundering and how to avoid the commission of a tipping off offence. He has given many lectures and training sessions on the relevant law and, in particular, lectures regularly at the BBA 'Newly Appointed Money Laundering Reporting Officer' conferences. He is a member of the Law Society's Task Force on Money Laundering. Recent cases include:-
- firms of accountants on their responsibilities following suspicious of money laundering by clients
- a PLC manufacturer on money laundering issues
- a trade association on the FSA's Money Laundering Rules and the impact on their members
- FSA regulated firms on compliance with the FSA Money Laundering Rules and the Money Laundering Regulations
- a firm of solicitors on matters relating to an SFO investigation into potential money laundering
- a company formation agent on compliance with the Money Laundering Regulations
- solicitors on their obligations under the Money Laundering Legislation
- an auction house on issues relating to money laundering
Fraud – Civil aspects
Has acted for a number of clients in relation to claims arising out of fraud and has advised on asset tracing both domestically and internationally, including obtaining freezing orders to secure assets. Cases have included litigation or regulatory inquiries in the US, Cayman Islands, Switzerland, Holland, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Bahamas, Panama and Jamaica.