Regulatory

Some individuals may be unaware that Companies House is capable of conducting investigations and enforcing criminal prosecutions. As the governing body responsible for monitoring UK company registrations, Companies House is empowered to prosecute directors who have been accused of failing to carry out their legal obligations under the Companies Act 2006. The most common offence prosecuted by Companies House is the late filing of a company's annual accounts, but the agency can also bring other associated criminal charges. A conviction can lead to a criminal record, substantial fines, and possibly even disqualification from serving as a director in any company, which is especially significant for professionals such as solicitors or accountants who may need to notify their regulator of their conviction. 

Companies House has recently become more active in prosecuting directors of companies, regardless of their size, for reasons that may not be their fault. Although Companies House prosecutions are not typically complex, individuals facing the potential for prosecution should consult an experienced attorney as soon as possible, as a swift response can be critical to a successful defence. 

Discover how our skilled solicitors specialising in Companies House matters can assist you. At McArthur solicitors, we have ample experience in safeguarding the interests of directors implicated in Companies House investigations and prosecutions. Our legal team is accustomed to dealing with intricate corporate structures and comprehending issues related to directors, accountants, and auditors, which may cause delays outside the scope of the individual director. We possess in-depth knowledge of strategic considerations and have achieved outstanding outcomes in convincing Companies House to abandon cases. Our team's efforts have led to the discontinuation of prosecution in several recent cases.

Obtaining legal advice at an early stage is crucial. If you would like to discuss any aspect of your case, please email us at enquiries@mcarthursolicitors.co.uk or Contact Us here. Alternatively, you can phone 020 4587 4583.

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Solicitors Specialising in Firearms Offences and Licensing

Due to their sensitive nature, firearms offences are treated with great seriousness and carry a range of consequences, ranging from fines and the revocation of licences to imprisonment. If you have been accused of misusing a firearm, utilizing a firearm without the appropriate license, are a business involved in the creation or use of such weapons, or require legal advice regarding your firearm application or certificate, seek the expertise of our solicitors specialising in firearms and licensing immediately.

In the wake of the tragic events in Plymouth, the regulation and control of firearms have come under close scrutiny. Police forces have been compelled to adopt a new approach to firearms licensing in line with the November 2021 statutory guidance for chief officers of police on firearms licensing.

McArthur solicitors offers a robust assortment of high-quality and efficient services. With our extensive success in this delicate domain of the law, our adept solicitors will approach your case with the keenness and respect deserving of your situation.

Allegations involving firearms can quickly escalate and pose unexpected threats to your freedom. Law enforcement officers are duty-bound to safeguard the public, and if you possess a firearm without proper licensing or have been using it recklessly, the severity of the accusations against you may come as a surprise. 

The prospect of court hearings can be intimidating, and it's possible to receive more severe consequences than warranted without the correct legal counsel and assistance. Our knowledgeable firearms lawyers will meticulously scrutinise every facet of your case, ranging from your license to determine if the allegations against you are exaggerated. 

Obtaining legal advice at an early stage is crucial. If you would like to discuss any aspect of your case, please email us at enquiries@mcarthursolicitors.co.uk or Contact Us here. Alternatively, you can phone 020 4587 4583.

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Businesses and individuals can benefit from the guidance and support of our seasoned crime and regulatory lawyers at all stages of a regulatory investigation or intervention. 

At McArthur Solicitors, our team is equipped to conduct internal investigations that may prevent external agencies like the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Environment Agency from intervening. Our approach is tailored to meet the specific requirements of our clients.

What advantages come with carrying out an internal investigation? 

By conducting a thorough and well-planned internal investigation, not only can it prevent external investigations, but with help from the experts at McArthur Solicitors, it can also: 

• provide support and guidance for staff affected by the issues being investigated;
•  determine any regulatory breaches or criminal activity, which may require reporting to the relevant authorities, such as the SFO, FCA, or NCA; 
• guide the strategy for responding to external investigations by preparing for regulator interviews, engaging with authorities on your behalf, and seeking expert consultation; identify any weaknesses in current policies to prevent future incidents; 
• mitigate any disruptions caused by the investigation on the business 
• manage reputational harm resulting from the investigation. 

It is important to be aware that privilege issues surrounding documents and materials gathered or created during the investigation are complex and require legal expertise. Legal advice privilege pertains to confidential discussions between Lawyers and clients for the predominant purpose of obtaining legal advice, while litigation privilege covers documents or communications between a Lawyer, their client, or a third party, created dominant-purpose for anticipated or existing litigation.

The McArthur Solicitors team is well-known for our proactive approach. We understand the impact that investigations can have on businesses, employees, and clients. When we are enlisted, we take every measure necessary to ensure that internal issues are properly and effectively handled to reduce the risk of legal actions taken against the company and its employees. 

Initially, we work with you to determine the extent of the work required. This includes identifying the investigation's purpose and participants, verifying their impartiality and lack of bias. Timeframes will also be established, and immediate notification to the relevant regulatory authorities and insurers will be considered where appropriate. If necessary, we can refer you to HR specialists for associated issues or PR professionals for media strategy.

Obtaining legal advice at an early stage is crucial. If you would like to discuss any aspect of your case, please email us at enquiries@mcarthursolicitors.co.uk or Contact Us here. Alternatively, you can phone 020 4587 4583.