What To Do If You Are Accused of Conspiracy to Defraud
Introduction
Being accused of conspiracy to defraud can be overwhelming and intimidating. These charges are serious and carry the risk of significant prison sentences, damage to your reputation, and long-term consequences for your personal and professional life. But with the right legal advice at the earliest stage, there are effective ways to challenge the allegations and protect your rights.
What Is Conspiracy to Defraud?
Conspiracy to defraud is a criminal offence where two or more people agree to dishonestly deceive another person or organisation to cause a loss or gain. You can be charged with conspiracy even if:
– The fraud was never carried out
– No one actually suffered a financial loss
– You did not personally benefit
The prosecution only needs to prove that:
1. There was an agreement to defraud, and
2. You intended to be part of that dishonest agreement.
Examples of Conspiracy to Defraud
Common scenarios include:
– Colluding with others to submit false loan, mortgage, or insurance applications
– Running or participating in boiler room scams or Ponzi schemes
– Coordinating fraudulent VAT or tax returns
– Business partners agreeing to deceive investors or regulators
– Employees planning to siphon off company funds
What Should You Do If You’re Accused?
1. Do Not Speak to Investigators Without Legal Representation
Even if you’re told it’s a “voluntary interview” or “informal chat,” anything you say can be used against you. Always have a solicitor present.
2. Instruct a Specialist Fraud Solicitor Immediately
Conspiracy to defraud cases are legally and factually complex. A general criminal solicitor may not be experienced in reviewing financial data, disclosure issues, and the strategies required to challenge fraud prosecutions.
3. Preserve Any Evidence That May Help Your Case
Documents, emails, call logs, and even texts can be vital. Keep records safe and do not delete anything, even if you think it may look bad — let your solicitor advise.
4. Don’t Discuss the Case With Anyone Except Your Solicitor
Even innocent conversations with friends, colleagues, or co-defendants could later be used by investigators to build a case against you.
What Are the Penalties for Conspiracy to Defraud?
If convicted, you could face:
– Up to 10 years’ imprisonment
– Confiscation of assets under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA)
– Director disqualification, professional bans, or regulatory sanctions
– Irreparable damage to your reputation and career
How Can We Help?
At Adam Law Solicitors, we provide expert defence in conspiracy to defraud cases, offering:
– 24/7 representation at police interviews
– In-depth analysis of financial evidence
– Strategic challenges to the prosecution’s case
– Access to expert witnesses including forensic accountants
– Negotiations with prosecution to drop or reduce charges where possible
Contact Our Fraud Conspiracy Solicitors Today
If you are under investigation or have been charged with conspiracy to defraud, contact us immediately for a confidential consultation.
Call 0114 2560111/07976 850347 or contact us online. We are available 24/7.
