Defence in Fraud Prosecutions
Fraud cases can be some of the most complex in the criminal justice system. They often involve large volumes of evidence, detailed financial transactions, and lengthy investigations by agencies such as the Serious Fraud Office, the Financial Conduct Authority, His Majesties’ Revenue and Customs, or the City of London Police.
If you are facing an allegation of fraud, whether as an individual or as part of a business, it is important to choose a representative with extensive legal knowledge, experienced insight, and a track record of successfully defending serious financial cases.
Quentin has over 25 years of experience in financial crime, his background working in the City and undertaking fraud prosecutions gives him a valuable perspective when defending fraud cases. He prides himself in knowing how prosecutions are constructed, where the weaknesses are, and how to expose them effectively in court.
Quentin specialises in representing professionals and those of good character, particularly in respect of cases involving fraud by abuse of position or fraud by false representation. He is often the go-to Barrister for fellow legal professionals who find themselves accused of dishonesty offences.
Quentin defends clients in a wide range of fraud matters, his areas of expertise include:
- Tax fraud (including VAT, PAYE, and Corporation Tax fraud)
- Investment fraud and Ponzi schemes
- False accounting and fraudulent trading
- Insurance fraud
- Fraud by employees
- Mortgage fraud
- Benefit fraud
- Conspiracy to defraud
- Director and employee fraud
Fraud cases can be complicated and will often involve not just factual and legal issues, but also an understanding of financial systems, company structures, and accounting practices. Quentin often works closely with expert witnesses and forensic accountants to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and build a solid and persuasive defence case. Quentin’s focus is always on achieving the best possible result for his clients, a Not Guilty verdict.
Simply Contact Quentin for a free initial telephone consultation to explore your options.
Quentin’s guides to Fraud law
Fraud by false representation
Leading Criminal Barrister Quentin Hunt looks at the 'elements' of the offence of Fraud by False representation under the Fraud Act 2006.
Fraud by Abuse of Position s4 Fraud Act 2006
Criminal Barrister Quentin Hunt analyses the offence of Fraud by Abuse of Position.
Fraud by failing to disclose information
Section 1 of the Fraud Act 2006 relates to the offence of failing to disclose information. The offence is wide ranging and can cover a number of circumstances. An example would be where a person makes an insurance claim for a ring that they believed had been stolen. They report this to their insurance company and make a claim. They subsequently receive an insurance payout of £15,000 for the ring. Read further to find out more..
The Fraud Act 2006
If you have been accused of an Offence of Fraud you will need to consult a specialist lawyer as soon as possible to discuss the options available to you. Fraud is a huge area of the law and a detailed summary if impossible in a short article however below is a basic summary of the law. Read this to find out more..
False statements by Company Directors- The Law
Barrister Quentin Hunt examines criminal liability relating to false and misleading statements made by Company Directors.
VAT Fraud and Missing Trader Intra-Community Fraud, MTIC Fraud
VAT fraud is big business. How big? Well it is very difficult to estimate the exact amount of money that is defrauded but the case of Federation of Technological Industries estimated that in 2002-03 the cost to the United Kingdom taxpayer was between £1.65 and £2.64 billion. By 2005-6 an EU think tank estimated that this figure had increased to some £10 billion. Read further to find out more..
Example of a VAT Fraud in Action
If you are being investigated or have been charged with an offence of VAT fraud it is essential that you seek specialist legal representation at an early stage. How the matter is conducted from the outset will shape the course of the case against you. Careful consideration of the evidence is essential as well as an excellent working knowledge of this sort of case and experience in dealing with HMRC and the CPS. Read further to find out more ..
Quentin is available to represent clients from the very earliest stage of investigation, including interviews under caution, all the way through to trial, confiscation proceedings, and appeals where necessary.
Whether you are already facing charges or have simply been contacted by investigators, early legal advice is essential. Quentin can offer the clear advice, careful preparation, and powerful advocacy you need to defend yourself with confidence.