Fraud Solicitor Birmingham – Serious Fraud Defence for Individuals & Businesses

Fraud Act 2006 offences

Most fraud prosecutions are brought under the Fraud Act 2006. The main offences are fraud by false representation (section 2), fraud by failing to disclose information (section 3), and fraud by abuse of position (section 4). Each requires proof of dishonesty and an intent to make a gain or cause a loss. David Roy advises on all Fraud Act 2006 offences, from early investigation through to Crown Court trial.

Bribery Act 2010

The Bribery Act 2010 created four offences: bribing another person (section 1), being bribed (section 2), bribing a foreign public official (section 6), and – most significantly for businesses – the corporate offence of failing to prevent bribery (section 7). The section 7 offence applies to commercial organisations and carries an unlimited fine. There is a defence of having adequate procedures in place to prevent bribery. David Roy advises individuals and businesses facing Bribery Act 2010 investigations, which are typically conducted by the Serious Fraud Office or specialist police units.

Why you need a specialist fraud solicitor in Birmingham – early advice is critical

Fraud investigations often begin quietly: a request for documents, a caution interview, or a search warrant executed at your home or office. What you say and do in those first hours can determine whether you are charged, offered a caution, or the case is dropped. David Roy advises clients before any formal interview, helping you understand your rights, avoid self‑incrimination, and build a defence strategy from the outset.

He has extensive experience of SFO and HMRC investigations, including cases involving cross‑border evidence, complex forensic accounting, and allegations of large‑scale dishonesty. He also works with forensic accountants and barristers specialising in financial crime. More on SFO defence →

Notable fraud cases handled by David Roy

• R v S (Kieren Fallon horse race fixing trial): Following defence submissions, the judge stopped the trial. David acted as litigator.
• Operation Hornet (HBOS Reading fraud): A case arising from serious fraud and corruption at Halifax Bank of Scotland's Reading branch, involving HBOS employees and external business advisers. David acted as litigator.
• HMRC v R: Complex contempt proceedings concerning search warrants in a substantial offshore investment fraud investigation. The client was cleared and costs obtained against HMRC.

These cases demonstrate David’s ability to identify procedural weaknesses, challenge prosecution evidence, and secure positive outcomes even in high‑pressure, multi‑defendant trials.

How the process works – from investigation to trial

David will assess your case in plain English, explain likely costs (legal aid may be available for some fraud cases, subject to means testing, or fixed fees for private work), and outline the stages:

1. Pre‑interview advice: Strategy for voluntary or compelled interviews.
2. Representation at interview: David attends with you (free at police station, otherwise fixed fee).
3. Pre‑charge representations: Arguing that no charges should be brought.
4. Magistrates’ or Crown Court: Full representation through to trial or sentence.
5. Confiscation proceedings: Dealing with POCA (Proceeds of Crime Act) if convicted. See money laundering & POCA →