Mark Smith

Mark Smith is a Partner of the firm and Head of the Serious and General Crime department.

Mark represents companies and individuals for the full spectrum of criminal offences. He has conducted many complex and high-profile cases from the pre-charge investigation stage through to litigation, including investigations and / or proceedings brought by the National Crime Agency [NCA], His Majesty’s Revenue & Customs [HMRC], the Insolvency Service, and National Trading Standards.

In addition to his wealth of experience in serious and general crime, Mark acts for those who are subject to civil investigations concerning cash and asset seizure and forfeiture, Account Freezing Orders, Account Forfeiture Orders, and Unexplained Wealth Orders.

Mark is often recognised by his clients for investing a great deal of time and commitment into each of his cases, and along with his incisive and intelligent approach, this has contributed to his reputation as a formidable solicitor.

Notable and recent instructions include:

Former company director and businessman in the advertising services industry, who is being investigated by the Insolvency Service in relation to allegations under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and the Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986.

A company director in the jewellery industry with a multi-million-pound business, who is being investigated in relation to allegations under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. Also advising in relation to cash and asset seizure under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, as well as advising on corporate compliance and regulatory issues.

A multi-company director in the financial services industry charged in relation to a complex and sophisticated pension liberation fraud valued in excess of £5 million.

A company director in the warehousing and storage industry charged in relation to a large-scale conspiracy to manufacture and supply drugs.

A chemical engineer subject to a joint investigation by Trading Standards and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in relation to allegations of fraudulent trading, and regulatory offences under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 and Consumer Protection Act 1987.

A company director in the marketing and publishing industry charged with money laundering with suspected criminal proceeds being filtered through a complicated web of property purchases utilising fraudulently obtained mortgages. The operation concerned hundreds of properties and the laundering of millions of pounds over a 10-year period.

A professional charged with alleged involvement in a multi-handed, international money laundering scheme with over £10m laundered through various companies, organisations, and bank accounts.

An individual who was alleged to be the main defendant in the largest firearms trafficking case ever encountered by UK law enforcement.

A professional in the waste industry being investigated by HMRC as part of a large-scale conspiracy to defraud and money laundering valued at over £150m.

A company director and accountant being investigated for allegations of fraud.

An individual charged with causing death by dangerous driving.