Defending your assets, livelihood & reputation.
We help individuals and businesses facing sudden cash seizure or forfeiture achieve swift recovery of their money by challenging unlawful actions under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) 2002, restoring financial stability and peace of mind, and avoiding the fear, uncertainty and reputational damage that can follow aggressive enforcement.
Defence
Cash Seizure & Forfeiture Defence Specialists
Being served with a cash seizure notice or having funds detained can be devastating. You may feel powerless, confused, and exposed to financial hardship. Our team of specialist cash seizure defence lawyers act fast to protect your rights and recover your assets.We understand the seriousness of these proceedings. Under POCA 2002, law enforcement can detain money over £1,000 if they suspect it represents criminal property often without charge. This can disrupt livelihoods, affect business continuity, and cause severe emotional distress.
With a team of skilled cash seizure and forfeiture specialists, Ashmans Solicitors are here to assist, whether:
- You’re facing cash seizure proceedings or challenging a forfeiture application
- You want to protect your rights and ensure a fair legal process
- You want a strategic legal defence from a strong yet sensitive team of experts
With Ashmans, you never need to feel alone. We’re in your corner at every stage, fearlessly fighting for the best possible outcomes.
Cash Seizure & Forfeiture and the Law.
Under Part 5, Chapter 3 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, authorities including the National Crime Agency (NCA), HMRC, and the police may seize cash believed to be the proceeds of unlawful conduct or intended for unlawful use.
- The physical seizure of cash sums exceeding £1,000 from any location (e.g. at ports, homes, or businesses).
- The temporary detention of funds pending investigation into their legitimacy.
- The forfeiture of cash through court proceedings if it is proven to be criminal property.
- Possessed or controlled the seized cash.
- That the funds represent or are intended for criminal activity.
- That the cash cannot be adequately explained as legitimate earnings or savings.
Investigations may involve agencies such as the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), Serious Fraud Office (SFO), Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), NCA, and HMRC. They typically examine banking records, business accounts, money transfers, travel patterns, and digital communications to establish the alleged source of funds.
An experienced financial crime lawyer ensures every procedural safeguard is respected, including lawful seizure, proper notice, and evidential standards. Our team challenges irregularities robustly to prevent unlawful forfeiture.
Essential actions against accusations
From the moment cash is seized or an investigation begins, your actions can influence the outcome of your cash seizure or forfeiture case. Take our advice and follow these steps:
Act fast, engage Ashmans, protect your future.
Do NOT provide informal explanations about the money without legal advice your comments can later be relied upon in court.
Even if the money is legitimate, do NOT answer questions or give statements without your legal specialist present.
With 24/7 availability, Ashmans is always here to provide urgent legal support and protect your position.
Make sure to keep bank statements, receipts or documents that may prove the legitimate origin of the funds.
Comply with any court requirements and allow your solicitor to challenge the seizure or forfeiture application.
Three simple steps
to your Defence
Getting the right legal defence is easy. Follow these three simple steps to protect your rights and future.
Step 1:
Initial Consultation
We assess your case and explain your rights
Step 2:
Strategic Defence Planning
Our solicitors build a robust defence and gather financial proof.
Step 3:
Expert Legal Representation
We advocate powerfully at every hearing to recover your assets.
Our Testimonials
Real stories. Real results.
See how Ashmans has successfully supported previous clients and listen to what they have to say about our Cash Seizure and Forfeiture legal support.
Brilliant Support and Peace of Mind
My experience with Ashmans Solicitors was excellent from start to finish. They were reliable, professional, and always available to address…
Outstanding Outcome in Proceeds of Crime Case
I was facing a serious proceeds of crime case where the authorities were seeking over £200,000. Ashmans Solicitors worked tirelessly…
Flaw Found, Case Dismissed: Expert Legal Defence
I was facing a serious VAT fraud charge and decided to change my legal representation to Ashmans Solicitors — and…
Extraordinary Defence Leading to Case Dismissal
I was charged alongside several others in a fraud case, and it was one of the most stressful times of…
Remarkable Support and Dedication in Fraud Case
I had a really good experience with Ashmans Solicitors. Their commitment and effort went far beyond my expectations, and I…
Remarkable Support and Advice in My Fraud Case
Facing money laundering charges between February and August 2019 was one of the most difficult times in my life. Throughout…
Unwavering Support and Expertise in Fraud Case
I was facing one of the most challenging times in my life when my business and personal circumstances turned upside…
Trusted Expertise Leading to a Full Acquittal
Can only speak positively about my experience with Ashmans Solicitors. They were recommended to me after I received a court…
Remarkable Support During a Devastating Ordeal
During one of the most devastating experiences of my life, Ashmans Solicitors provided unwavering support when I needed it most.…
Reliable and Professional Legal Support
I found Ashmans Solicitors to be completely on-point and highly professional throughout my case. Their expertise and straightforward approach gave…
Outstanding Support and Professional Representation
I couldn’t have asked for a better legal representative. Ashmans Solicitors truly believed in my case and made a difficult…
Expert Legal Defence That Turned My Case Around
I was falsely accused after my ex-business partners staged a blackmail attempt, leading to false allegations of sexual offences and…
Relentless Defence Leading to Justice
I was wrongly charged with conspiracy to pervert the course of justice and sent for trial at Manchester Crown Court.…
Outstanding Legal Support in Serious Drug Case
I turned to Ashmans Solicitors when my sister was charged with conspiracy to supply Class A drugs. From the very…
Exceptional Expertise in Complex Criminal Fraud Cases
As a barrister with over 20 years of experience handling complex and high-value criminal fraud matters, I have worked alongside…
Relentless Commitment and Professionalism in Complex Cases
I have worked with Ashmans Solicitors on several high-profile and complex criminal cases, and their dedication to their clients is…
Clear and Honest Legal Guidance
I really appreciated how Ashmans Solicitors handled my case with clarity and honesty. They spoke to me in a straightforward…
Brilliant Representation Leading to Not Guilty Verdict
I want to express my deepest gratitude to Ashmans Solicitors for their exceptional handling of my fraud by misrepresentation case,…
Above and Beyond Legal Support and Service
I received excellent service from Ashmans Solicitors and couldn’t be more satisfied with the support they provided. Their professionalism and…
Exceptional Legal Support and Top-Tier Service
I can confidently say that Ashmans Solicitors are the best solicitors I’ve worked with. Their professionalism, dedication, and top-quality service…
Move Quickly,
Choose Wisely
When confronted with cash seizure or forfeiture proceedings, failure to act quickly and secure expert legal defence leaves you at risk of serious consequences:
- Seized funds can be permanently forfeited, causing serious financial loss.
- Investigations into the origin of the money can expand into wider criminal proceedings.
- Prolonged proceedings bring stress, uncertainty and potential reputational damage.
- Court orders can allow authorities to retain substantial amounts of money.
- An unsuccessful challenge can result in the permanent loss of legitimately earned funds.
You’re not alone, we’re here to help.
Cash Seizure & Forfeiture Allegations
The Ashmans Approach
At Ashmans, we take action. At every stage, you can be confident of expert legal defence, clear communication, and compassion. We’re here to protect your rights and safeguard your future, supporting you with:
- Attend interviews to ensure all rights are upheld.
- Advise on what to disclose about the source of funds.
- Prevent misinterpretation or incriminating responses.
- Apply for relaxed conditions where financial restrictions apply.
- Challenge disproportionate asset freezes.
- Ensure compliance to avoid further enforcement.
- Present evidence of legitimate income early.
- Negotiate with authorities for return of funds.
- Prevent escalation to formal forfeiture proceedings.
- Prepare full financial disclosure packages.
- Cross-examine investigators on the reliability of their evidence.
- Contest any link between cash and alleged criminal conduct.
- Deliver expert advocacy in Magistrates’ or Crown Court.
- Instruct forensic accountants and asset-tracing specialists.
- Protect clients from speculative or circumstantial findings.
- Argue for mitigation and proportional outcomes.
- Pursue compensation where appropriate.
- Support clients rebuilding financial and professional reputations.
Why Choose Ashmans?
Proven Record
Recognised for successful defences in complex POCA and forfeiture cases.
Experts in Fraud & Financial Crime
Decades of combined experience in high-value asset disputes.
24/7 Support
Immediate representation nationwide, whenever enforcement strikes.
Our Notable Cases
Serious charges, successful results.
Our Cash Seizure and Forfeiture solicitors have represented clients across a range of serious charges – see some examples of our work and outcomes.
Fraud and financial crime
Sentence Suspended
Forged Titles and Negotiated Justice
R v SA & Others, Peterborough Crown Court
Our client, along with a co-defendant, faced serious allegations involving large-scale fraud, money laundering, and related offences. The Prosecution claimed that our client had devised…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Sentence Suspended
Logistics Fraud Defence: Suspended Sentence Secured
R v CV, Leeds Crown Court
We successfully defended our client, a company owner, who faced charges of fraud by false representation and theft, achieving a suspended sentence. This case underscored…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Sentence Reduced
Fraud by False Representation – Local Councillor Case
R v SA, Snaresbrook Crown Court
This was a highly publicised case involving allegations of fraud by false representation against our client, a sitting local councillor from the London Borough of…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Sentence Reduced
Conspiracy to Commit Fraud Involving Forged Cheques
R v ASY, Leeds Crown Court
Our client faced charges of conspiracy to commit fraud involving forged cheques. This was a classic ‘long firm fraud’ (also known as a consumer credit fraud). The…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Not Guilty Verdict
Acquittal Secured in £40 Million Mortgage Fraud Case
R v TC & Others, Operation Aquamarine, Southwark Crown Court
We achieved a unanimous ‘not-guilty’ verdict for our client who was accused of participating in a £40 million mortgage fraud conspiracy against Barclays Private Client…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Not Guilty Verdict
HMRC Fraud Case: Defence Against Allegations of Cigarette Duty Evasion
R v S Ahmed and Others
We successfully defended a Kurdish National accused of defrauding HMRC by evading duty on millions of cigarettes. Following a lengthy and complex trial, our client…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Not Guilty Verdict
Identity Theft and Forged Bank Documents: £1 Million Fraud Acquittal
R v PN & Others, Leeds Crown Court
We represented a lady of previous good character who was accused of ‘conspiracy to defraud’ and ‘money laundering’ involving over £1 million. After a six-week…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Not Guilty Verdict
Securing Justice in a £1m Mortgage Fraud Case
R v NF, Bradford Crown Court
Our client, one of several defendants, faced serious charges of conspiracy to commit mortgage fraud and money laundering, involving sums totalling nearly £1 million. Despite…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Not Guilty Verdict
Orchestrated Fraud Unveiled: Proactive Defence Secures Justice
R v KT & Others, Wood Green Crown Court
Our client faced allegations of conspiring with others in a “Cash for Crash” insurance fraud scheme. The case had a dramatic reversal when, at the…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Not Guilty Verdict
Multi-Million Pound Duty Fraud and Money Laundering Acquittal
R v GH, Bristol Crown Court
Our Serious Fraud Department successfully secured a ‘not guilty’ verdict for the lead defendant in a multi-million pound duty fraud and money laundering case. After…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Not Guilty Verdict
Unravelling a £34 Million Conspiracy: Successful Defence Against Disclosure Failures
R v AG – Snaresbrook Crown Court – 2021
We successfully defended our client, who was charged with conspiracy to launder £34 million between 2012 and 2018. The case collapsed after our Fraud and…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Not Guilty Verdict
Acquitted in £2.6m VAT Fraud: “Operation Janitor”
Operation Janitor, Birmingham Crown Court
This case involved a £2.6 million VAT fraud investigated and prosecuted by SOCA (Serious Organised Crime Agency). We successfully defended a company director accused of…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Not Guilty Verdict
Charity Fraud and Misappropriation Acquittal: “Operation Caring Today”
“Operation Caring Today” Preston Crown Court
At Preston Crown Court, we successfully defended a former charity worker who was accused of fraud and money laundering. After meticulous preparation, our client was…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Charges Reduced
Proactive Defence in “Cash for Crash” Case
R v NA, Peterborough Crown Court
Our client faced allegations of conspiracy to defraud insurance companies, involving fraudulent insurance claims, in a scheme commonly known as: “Cash for Crash.” Through our…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Charges Dropped
Certified Accountant’s Legal Triumph
R v LF, Leeds Crown Court
Our client, a Certified Accountant, faced allegations of conspiracy to commit mortgage fraud involving sums totalling £1 million. This complex case required exceptional negotiation skills…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Sentence Suspended
Set-Top Box Fraud Case – Custodial Sentence Avoided
R-v-DJ & Others, Leeds Crown Court
In this fraud case, The Prosecution claimed that our client had profited by more than £250,000 from the conversion of set-top boxes. According to Section…
Read More
Fraud and financial crime
Sentence Reduced
Latvian Nationals Avoid Custody in Criminal Property Conspiracy
R v AA & Others, Hull Court
This case against Latvian nationals, including our client, involved charges of Conspiracy to Transfer Criminal Property. Despite serious allegations concerning the illegal transfer of tens of…
Read More
Sexual offences
Sentence Reduced
Sentence Reduced in Historic Sexual Offences
R v EW, Sheffield Crown Court
Our client had a history of committing sexual offences against children, and he pleaded guilty to further offences of a similar nature. Despite the gravity…
Read More
Sexual offences
Not Guilty Verdict
Historic Sexual Abuse Allegations – Justice Secured
R v SH, Newcastle Crown Court
Our client, a gentleman of previous good character, faced ten counts of historic sexual abuse that dated back to the early 1980’s. Due to our…
Read More
Sexual offences
Not Guilty Verdict
Unanimous Acquittal in Festival Consent Allegation
R v RG, Derby Crown Court
Our client, a university student with no prior convictions, was accused of raping a woman he had just met, at a festival. The key issue…
Read More
Urgent Legal Assistance
Seek Immediate
Legal Support Today
Don’t waste time worrying. Contact our specialist financial crime and fraud lawyers, for immediate protection and legal guidance today
- Expert defence in cash seizure & forfeiture proceedings.
- Responsive 24/7 legal support when it matters most.
- Strategic solutions tailored to your case.
Our trusted accreditations
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