Section 2 notice

Section 2 of the Criminal Justice Act 1987 is a crucial piece of legislation in the United Kingdom’s fight against financial crime. The act was introduced to help combat white-collar crime by giving the authorities increased powers to investigate and prosecute financial wrongdoing. In this article, we will explore the key provisions of Section 2 of the Criminal Justice Act 1987 and what they mean for individuals and businesses.

Section 2 of the Criminal Justice Act 1987 gives the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) and other prosecuting authorities the power to require individuals and businesses to produce documents and information related to suspected financial wrongdoing. This power is known as a Section 2 notice, and it can be issued to anyone who is believed to have information that may be relevant to an ongoing investigation.

The Section 2 notice is a powerful tool for the authorities, as it enables them to access information that might otherwise be difficult or impossible to obtain. For example, if the SFO is investigating a suspected fraud committed by a company, it can issue a Section 2 notice to the company’s employees, suppliers, or customers, requiring them to produce documents or answer questions about their involvement in the fraud.

It is worth noting that a Section 2 notice is not an accusation of wrongdoing. Instead, it is a request for information that is relevant to an ongoing investigation. Failure to comply with a Section 2 notice can result in serious consequences, including fines and imprisonment.

If you receive a Section 2 notice, it is essential to seek legal advice as soon as possible. A law firm with specialist expertise and experience in assisting individuals in receipt of a Section 2 notice can help you understand the scope of the notice and advise you on how to respond. They will also be able to negotiate with the authorities on your behalf to limit the scope of the notice or seek additional time to comply.

One of the key features of a Section 2 notice is that it can require individuals to produce documents that are held overseas. This provision is particularly useful for the authorities, as it enables them to access information that might otherwise be out of reach. However, it can also create significant challenges for those who receive a notice, particularly if they are required to produce documents from a jurisdiction with different legal and cultural norms.

If you are required to produce documents that are held overseas, it is also essential to seek legal advice from a law firm with experience in international law. They can help you navigate the complex legal landscape and ensure that you comply with both the Section 2 notice and the relevant laws in the jurisdiction where the documents are held.

Another important feature of a Section 2 notice is that it can be used to compel individuals to attend an interview with the authorities. If you are asked to attend an interview, it is essential to seek legal advice before doing so. Jeremy Gordon can help you prepare for the interview and advise you on what to say and what not to say. We may also be able to accompany you to the interview to ensure that your rights are protected.

In conclusion, Section 2 of the Criminal Justice Act 1987 is a powerful tool for the authorities in their fight against financial crime.

It enables them to access information that might otherwise be difficult or impossible to obtain and provides them with the power to compel individuals to attend interviews and produce documents. If you receive a Section 2 notice, it is essential to seek legal advice from a specialist law firm as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected and that you comply with the notice. Jeremy Gordon has substantial experience in advising clients in receipt of Section 2 Notices.

Our lawyers are available to assist you and provide legal advice.

Contact London +44 7700 158304 or Manchester +44 7700 164107. Alternatively you can email info@jeremygordon.co.uk