Defending your name, reputation and future.
We help professionals, executives and traders accused of insider dealing protect their freedom and reputation by providing immediate, expert legal representation from the moment of arrest or investigation, so they safeguard their careers, assets and good name, and avoid the devastating consequences of a criminal conviction.
Defence
Insider Dealing Defence Specialists
Allegations of insider dealing can destroy years of professional credibility and financial stability overnight. If the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) or Serious Fraud Office (SFO) suspects that you’ve traded using confidential information, the consequences are severe — from criminal prosecution to lifetime market bans.
With a team of skilled insider dealing specialists, Ashmans Solicitors are here to assist, whether:
- You’re under investigation or suspected of insider dealing offences
- You want to protect your rights and ensure a fair regulatory process
- You want a strategic legal defence from a strong yet discreet team of experts
With Ashmans, you never need to face investigations alone. We stand beside you throughout proceedings, firmly pursuing the strongest possible outcome available.
Insider Dealing and the Law
Under Part V of the Criminal Justice Act 1993, insider dealing (commonly known as insider trading) is a serious criminal offence in England and Wales. It targets individuals who use or disclose confidential information obtained through their position to gain a financial advantage in securities trading.
- Trading in securities while possessing unpublished, price-sensitive information.
- Encouraging others to trade using inside information.
- Disclosing inside information other than in the proper performance of duties.
- Had access to specific, non-public information about a company or investment.
- Knew or had reasonable cause to believe the information was inside information.
- Used that information to deal in, or encourage dealing in, relevant securities.
Investigations are typically led by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), sometimes jointly with the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) or National Crime Agency (NCA). The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) may also prosecute following investigation.
Evidence often includes, Email and messaging correspondence between traders or analysts. Trading records, phone intercepts, or surveillance data. Corporate announcements, leaks, and compliance documentation. A conviction can result in up to 7 years’ imprisonment, unlimited fines, and permanent professional disqualification.
Essential actions against accusations
From the moment allegations arise or an investigation begins, the steps you take can significantly affect the outcome of your insider dealing case. Follow this guidance and take these important steps:
Act fast, engage Ashmans, protect your future.
Do NOT contact colleagues, brokers, investors or anyone connected to the allegation and avoid discussing the matter online.
Even if you believe you’ve done nothing wrong, do NOT attend regulatory or police interviews without specialist legal representation present.
With 24/7 availability, Ashmans is always ready to provide urgent legal protection and guidance.
Ensure you retain trading records, communications and any documents that may assist your defence.
Adhere strictly to any imposed conditions and allow your solicitor to guide your legal strategy.
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
One of our Insider Dealing specialists will speak with you to assess your case, review evidence and explore your defence options.
Step 2:
Strategic Defence Planning
Through in-depth financial analysis, we’ll build a sophisticated, custom defence strategy to protect your reputation and interests.
Step 3:
Expert Legal Representation
We’ll be with you in court to challenge weak evidence, support you and fight for the best possible outcome
Our Testimonials
Real stories. Real results.
See how Ashmans has successfully supported previous clients and listen to what they have to say about our Insider Dealing 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 an insider dealing allegation, failing to act swiftly and obtain specialist legal defence can expose you to serious consequences:
- A criminal conviction for insider dealing can damage your career, professional standing and future opportunities.
- Regulatory action and financial penalties can severely impact your finances and investments.
- Lengthy investigations by authorities can cause significant stress, uncertainty and reputational harm.
- Custodial sentences may result in loss of liberty and potential bans from working in regulated sectors.
- A successful insider dealing prosecution can undermine your credibility and professional reputation long-term.
You’re not alone, we’re here to help.
Insider Dealing 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.
- Prepare clients fully for FCA or SFO questioning.
- Challenge procedural errors in evidence collection.
- Ensure interviews remain within lawful boundaries.
- Negotiate fair bail terms allowing professional activity.
- Apply for variations where conditions are excessive.
- Protect clients from restrictions affecting their livelihood.
- Submit proactive representations to influence charging decisions.
- Engage with FCA or CPS to highlight disclosure issues.
- Present exculpatory material to avoid prosecution.
- Defend against restraint or confiscation under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
- Challenge market abuse proceedings and financial penalties.
- Secure early release of frozen assets for living expenses.
- Work with forensic accountants and market analysts.
- Dissect trading data and communication evidence.
- Build cross-examination strategies to expose weaknesses.
- Present compelling personal and professional mitigation.
- Advocate for suspended or community sentences.
- Support rehabilitation and reputation restoration efforts.
Why Choose Ashmans?
Proven Record
Decades of defending complex FCA and SFO prosecutions.
Experts in Fraud & Financial Crime
Leading criminal defence solicitors ranked by Legal 500.
24/7 Support
Immediate legal help, anywhere in England and Wales.
Our Notable Cases
Serious charges, successful results.
Our Insider Dealing 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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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 against fraud & financial crime allegations.
- Responsive 24/7 legal support when it matters most.
- Strategic solutions tailored to your case.
Our trusted accreditations
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Freezing Orders in the UK: Legal Advice and Defence Guidance
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