Serious Crime Prevention Order

A Serious Crime Prevention Order is a civil order made under the Serious Crime Act 2007 designed to prevent, restrict or disrupt involvement in serious crime. It allows the court to impose tailored prohibitions, restrictions or requirements on an individual or company where this is considered necessary to protect the public.

Yes. Although SCPOs are often made following conviction in the Crown Court, they can also be granted by the High Court without a fresh conviction if the court is satisfied that the person has been involved in serious crime and that an order is necessary and proportionate.

An SCPO can impose wide-ranging conditions, including limits on business activities, financial transactions, use of bank accounts, digital communications, associations with named individuals, travel restrictions, or requirements to provide information or allow inspection of devices and records. The terms must be proportionate but can be highly intrusive.

An SCPO can last for up to five years. In some cases, further applications may be made before expiry if authorities believe ongoing restrictions are required. The duration and scope will depend on the court’s assessment of risk and necessity.

Breach of an SCPO is a criminal offence. If convicted, you may face imprisonment, a fine, or both. Even an alleged technical or unintentional breach can result in prosecution, so immediate legal advice is essential if compliance is questioned.

Yes. You may oppose the making of an order, argue that proposed terms are disproportionate, or apply to vary or discharge an existing order if circumstances change. The court must ensure that conditions remain necessary and proportionate.

Applications are typically brought by enforcement authorities such as the National Crime Agency, Serious Fraud Office, HM Revenue & Customs, and other designated prosecutors or regulatory bodies.

Yes. An SCPO can significantly impact your commercial operations, regulatory position and professional reputation. Restrictions on financial dealings, reporting requirements, or public proceedings may have lasting consequences, even where no new criminal conviction has occurred. Early specialist representation is vital to protect your future.