Trading Standards Investigations

• Experience defending clients in investigations by The Office of Fair Trading, Local Authority Trading Standards Departments and Food Standards Agency
• Sentencing mitigation, negotiating costs, confiscation (POCA) and ancillary orders
• Attendance before Licensing Sub Committee for premises licence review. 

• Rapid response to counterfeit and unsafe goods (test purchase to co-ordinated action) 
• Seizure challenges, brand protection, parallel civil claims and settlement strategy. 

• Evidence preservation, document holds and chain of custody guidance
• Privilege strategy (including expert instructions) and internal investigation scoping
• Handling information requests, production notices and Section 9 witness statements
• Interview under caution: strategy (‘no comment’ / prepared statement / full engagement), preparation and attendance
• Disclosure and CPIA compliance strategies
• Regulator engagement to avoid or limit prosecution
• Advising on related investigations and procedures such as a premises licence review under the Licensing Act 2003.  

We will: 

• Talk with investigating bodies to protect your interests
• Help you prepare for any interviews under caution
• Prepare written statements
• Help you protect your business from unwanted media attention 
• Make you aware of your rights and solutions, if an investigation will impact your ability to work 
• Provide pragmatic advice and treat your situation with sensitivity and care
• Represent you at a Licensing Hearing or Licensing Appeal.