
Dawn Raids, Search and Seizure
We ensure our clients’ rights and interests are protected, while minimising as far as possible the adverse impact on them and their businesses
Sometimes the first a person knows of a criminal investigation is when investigating officers arrive at their home or office armed with a search warrant demanding entry. Warrants are court orders which permit the officers to enter premises and search them for property of a kind described in the warrant. If the officers find that property, they can seize and retain it.
It is not just the police who can apply for search warrants: they can be obtained by many other investigators such as the SFO, FCA, HMRC, ICO and the CMA. Frequently arrests will be made and restraint orders will be served when search warrants are executed. Searches can therefore mark the start of the long process in which a client will have to deal with the various issues thrown up by the investigation.
Sometimes called a “dawn raid” because of the time of day most warrants are executed, a search is at best un-settling and at worst a traumatic event. However upsetting the experience, it is important to keep a clear head and to seek immediate legal advice. We have extensive experience of such situations, and can mobilise quickly. We ensure our clients’ rights and interests are protected, while minimising as far as possible the adverse impact on them and their businesses.
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Our Criminal Litigation Team
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