Responding to SFO Notices: The Director Will See You Now…

United KingdomScotland

Since its creation by the Criminal Justice Act 1987 (the Act), the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has been unique. It was felt that serious or complex fraud was so difficult to investigate that the SFO should have special investigation tools not available to other agencies at the time. Those tools or powers are contained in section 2 of the Act. The SFO uses them in every investigation it carries out.

This article discusses the key considerations for corporates responding to SFO notices, including an outline of the power, compliance, tipping off, and importantly, the steps to take if you receive a notice.