Counting companies from sectors including engineering, aerospace, extractives, and pharmaceutical, Debevoise & Plimpton LLP’s ‘truly exceptional’ practice  regularly advises on  high-profile money laundering and corruption cases. The firm boasts a strong track record dealing with both domestic and international enforcement agencies, including the SFO, US DOJ, and FCA, along with showcasing significant strength in the sanctions field. Lord Peter Goldsmith KC and Karolos Seeger lead the group, with the former regularly acting for corporations in litigation and white-collar matters, while the latter is a ‘wonderful lawyer’, focusing on AML and fraud matters. Jane Shvets is an expert in cross-border investigations, while international counsel Konstantin Bureiko concentrates on anti-corruption proceedings. Andrew Lee is knowledgeable on regulatory investigations involving the FCA.

The ’seriously impressive’ Dechert LLP white-collar practice provides dedicated expertise on both traditional financial crime and investigations work, along with handling newer areas, such as sanctions, ESG, and cryptocurrencies. The firm has in-depth experience managing cross-border, multi-agency DPAs and corporate settlements with domestic and international authorities- ranging from the SFO to the US DOJ.  US qualified co-head Roger Burlingame is an expert on multijurisdictional white-collar criminal defence proceedings, while Judith Seddon shows ‘pure excellence’ when advising on fraud, money laundering, and corruption investigations. Tim Bowden handles financial and general criminal law matters while Matthew Mazur guides companies through US government investigations. Evan Flowers and John Bedford are also recommended. Partner Caroline Black left in February 2023 and Matthew Banham moved to Seyfarth Shaw LLP.

Demonstrating strong cross-border capabilities, the Herbert Smith Freehills LLP practice is ‘superb’ at advising on all aspects of corporate crime, including fraud, money laundering and bribery, for financial institutions and global companies. The team shows significant strength in the advisory sphere- particularly regarding sanctions and AML issues- and has significant experience defending clients in high-profile SFO, HMRC, and FCA investigations. Susannah Cogman is ‘one of the best in the area’, leading the group with her extensive expertise in anti-money laundering and financial crime matters, while the ‘world class’ Brian Spiro routinely acts for corporates on tax and corruption cases. Robert Hunt is an expert on compliance issues, and Kate Meakin handles fraud and sanctions affairs. Elizabeth Head and Jessica Chappatte  are also recommended. Daniel Hudson left the firm in April 2023 for Seladore Legal .

Simmons & Simmons’ disputes and investigations team is well equipped to handle criminal prosecutions, internal investigations, and compliance matters, demonstrating ‘real strength in depth’. Boasting several financial crime specialists, the practice regularly deals with multi-jurisdictional proceedings involving corporate corruption and bribery, along with complex sanction compliance issues. The ‘standout’ Camilla De Silva heads the group, using her experience as a former senior SFO prosecutor to advise clients on domestic and global enforcement proceedings brought by the SFO, US DOJ, and HMRC, while Nick Benwell is praised by one client as ' a master of the intersection between corporate and criminal law on corruption and fraud matters'. Counsel Cherie Spinks provides financial institutions and corporations with sanctions expertise, while Emily Agnoli represents companies from sectors including energy, pharma, and technology. Alexandra Webster and Tom Bowen are both noted.  Stephen Gentle retired in May 2023.

Showcasing vast expertise in cross-border financial regulatory and corporate crime investigations, Slaughter and May’s practice is viewed as ‘gold standard’ by one client, acting on behalf of clients within the finance, natural resources, and healthcare spheres. The team routinely deals with domestic regulators- such as the SFO and FCA- as well as demonstrating robust international capabilities supporting global corporations in complex multi-jurisdictional investigations conducted by the US DOJ and SEC. Team head Richard Swallow is an expert on regulatory and criminal proceedings while the ‘superb’ Jonathan Cotton regularly deals with allegations of wrongdoing and corruption. Jonathan Clark advises on fraud and tax evasion matters, while Ewan Brown and Holly Ware are noted for their regulatory and criminal work. Gayathri Kamalanathan is knowledgeable on litigation and arbitration proceedings, with Tim Blanchard advising on bribery and corruption affairs. Senior counsels Ella Williams and Nicholas Querée are also noted.

With a global client-base and growing team, Addleshaw Goddard is highly recommended for its white-collar crime work, particularly regarding bribery and fraud risks. The practice displays ‘strength in depth’ when dealing with financial crime compliance, advisory and criminal defence proceedings, and consistently supports corporations from across the pharmaceutical, finance, and infrastructure sectors. The team has experience negotiating out-of-court resolutions with the SFO and US DOJ, with team head, Nichola Peters, bringing extensive knowledge on deferred prosecution agreements and negotiated settlements to the group. The ‘outstanding’ Michelle De Kluyver is an expert on sanctions issues and economic crime cases, whilst Polly Sprenger handles civil fraud and asset recovery. Legal director Neeta Chityal and Matthew Worby are also recommended.

Having assembled an ‘unbelievably hardworking and able’ litigation and investigations practice, Allen & Overy LLP routinely represents major international and domestic companies across the cryptocurrency, finance, and retail sectors. The team specialises in all aspects of financial crime, boasting substantial experience defending corporate clients in investigations brought by domestic and international enforcement agencies, including the SFO, FCA, and US DOJ. Calum Burnett and Arnondo Chakrabarti jointly lead, bringing vast expertise on corporate crime and regulatory matters to the group, while the ‘fabulously intelligent’ Eve Giles is also a key name to note. Jonathan Hitchin acts on multi-jurisdictional corruption cases, and Sarah Hitchins is an expert on internal investigations. Brandon O’Neil leads on many bribery and sanctions investigations. At the junior end, Hayley Humphries and Robin Marshall are recommended.

Combining international criminal defence capabilities with London expertise, the Baker McKenzie investigations practice is highly recommended for supporting companies with complex financial crime and regulatory compliance matters. With in-depth knowledge on all aspects of fraud, tax evasion, and sanctions breaches, the team routinely deals with the SFO, FCA, HMRC, along with overseas authorities on multi-jurisdictional investigations. Co-head of the global compliance group, Joanna Ludlam, has extensive experience handling corporate criminal liability issues and reputation management, while Charles Thomson leads the business crime unit, focusing on fraud investigations. Jonathan Peddle heads the financial institutions practice, concentrating primarily on financial crime and criminal litigation, while compliance and investigations co-head Sunny Mann handles sanctions and anti-bribery rules. Tristan Grimmer is also noted.

Displaying a ‘range of experience and skills’, the corporate governance practice at Clifford Chance LLP acts on behalf of global FTSE companies and financial institutions on compliance, regulatory, and risk management investigation matters. The team is regularly involved in high-profile cross-border proceedings, with particular expertise advising on corporate compliance measures associated with securities laws and ESG risks, along with human rights infringements and whistleblowing incidents. David Pudge and Luke Tolaini head the group, with the former assisting clients with corporate governance and regulatory issues, whilst the latter handles financial crime and cyber breaches. Steven Fox has 30 years’ experience of advising boards and shareholders, and Richard Crosby focuses on corporate restructurings. Rae Lindsay and Roger Lease are experts on ESG-related matters, and Ellen Lake concentrates on white-collar crime proceedings.

Counting global FTSE 100 and Fortune 500 companies among its ‘unparalleled client roster’, the white collar and fraud team at Hogan Lovells International LLP is well-positioned to manage multi-jurisdictional investigations and provide criminal defence advice. The practice is particularly active in high-profile SFO and FCA proceedings, demonstrating considerable strength in the bribery and corruption field, as well as regularly advising corporations in relation to HMRC tax fraud investigations. The ‘exceptional’ Claire Lipworth specialises in money laundering and market abuse issues. Liam Nadoo supports listed companies on financial crime, and counsel Olga Tocewicz is knowledgeable on insider trading and other financial misconduct. Counsel Alex Hohl and senior associate Reuben Vandercruyssen are also noted.

Kirkland & Ellis International LLP has a strong track record handling high-profile corporate crime investigations by domestic enforcement authorities, including the SFO, FCA, OFSI, and HMRC. The team shows significant strength advising large private equity firms and their portfolio companies on complex anti-money laundering, fraud, and financial sanctions matters, regularly drawing on its offices abroad to deliver global solutions. Marcus Thompson co-heads the department, bringing more than 20 years’ experience in financial crime matters to the offering, while the other co-head Satnam Tumani specialises in compliance issues and complex bribery and corruption cases. Patrick Navein handles economic sanctions and money laundering elements, while both Andrew Butel and Shruti Chandhok focus on internal corporate investigations and regulatory compliance.

Acting on behalf of clients in sectors including technology, energy, banking, and extractives, Linklaters LLP’s business crime team provides ‘high quality advice’ on the whole spectrum of financial crime, with a particular focus on cross-border criminal and regulatory investigations. The practice has notable expertise in sanctions work, routinely representing corporations in investigations by OFSI, along with challenging fines imposed by the authority. The department has vast experience of dealing with domestic agencies, such as the SFO and FCA, with the global head of dispute resolution, Alison Wilson, consistently advising financial institutions during major enforcement investigations into AML and financial crises. Satindar Dogra focuses on compliance relating to bribery and corruption, and Alison Saunders concentrates on prosecutions by criminal agencies. Ben Packer handles financial crime investigations, and senior criminal defence lawyer Elly Proudlock is also noted.

With a diverse client-base that includes financial institutions, manufacturing companies, and luxury businesses, the corporate crime and investigations team at Macfarlanes LLP has long-established strength in the traditional financial crime sphere. The practice has a growing advisory support offering, with significant depth in the AML and sanctions space, alongside expertise on anti-bribery compliance and regulatory issues. The head, Neill Blundell , is ‘charming but tough as nails’, with more than 20 years' experience dealing with fraud, bribery, and money laundering matters, while Dan Lavender regularly resolves major multi-jurisdictional investigations. Lorna Emson acts for banks and natural resources companies on complex commercial litigation issues, meanwhile Barry Donnelly focuses on prosecutions brought by the SFO, FCA, and US DOJ.

Boasting ‘great people from top to bottom’, the corporate crime practice at Mishcon de Reya LLP offers comprehensive advice on all aspects of criminal investigations, frequently drawing on the insolvency, employment, data, and reputation management departments within the firm. The team covers a considerable breadth of work, handling everything from day-to-day internal investigations to high-stakes law enforcement raids, as well as demonstrating expertise dealing with the SFO, FCA, and US DOJ. Johanna Walsh is a ‘first-rate team leader’, specialising in serious fraud and money laundering cases, while Matthew Ewens has experience assisting clients with HMRC tax fraud proceedings and SFO prosecutions. Alison Geary focuses on market abuse and cartel matters, and solicitor-advocate Kizzy Augustin provides strategic support during criminal investigations and inquests.

Norton Rose Fulbright regularly advises corporates on complex cross-border criminal investigations conducted by domestic and international authorities, including the SFO, FCA, and US DOJ. The practice demonstrates significant strength in the sanctions field, and advises corporates and financial institutions on US, EU, and UK regulation, export controls, and bribery laws, along with ESG compliance programmes. Co-heads Patrick Bourke and Neil O’ May bring vast expertise handling multi-jurisdictional white-collar crime prosecutions to the team, whilst the ‘unflappable’ Pamela Reddy is an expert on cross-border bribery, fraud, and money laundering matters. David Harris has experience dealing with financial sanctions issues, and Katie Stephen focuses on AML . Ruth Cowley concentrates on complex litigation, with Andrew Reeves regularly acting for banks and major corporates on a range of matters. Stuart Neely was promoted to partner in January 2023, with Claudia Culley also recommended.

Displaying a strong presence in the corporate investigations and compliance field, the Paul Hastings LLP team uses its ‘talent at all levels’ to effectively handle anti-bribery and corruption, fraud, and data security proceedings. The firm’s international structure enables close collaboration between the offices in the US, Europe, and Asia, enabling the practice to advise clients on all aspects surrounding high-profile cross-border investigations brought by domestic and global enforcement bodies. Jonathan Pickworth heads the practice, adopting an ‘imaginative’ approach when considering complex tax evasion and corruption matters, whilst Joanna Dimmock uses her ‘meticulous eye for detail’ when assisting with international corruption and criminal cartel issues. Morgan Miller supports companies during white-collar defence cases, and Arun Srivastava is also highlighted.

A recognised leader in the corporate crime and regulatory space, the Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (UK) LLP team uses its European offices and strong US practice to deliver bespoke advice regarding multi-jurisdictional criminal investigations conducted by the SFO, US DOJ, and SEC. The ‘first-class’ service covers all aspects of money laundering, corruption, and sanctions issues, along with special expertise assisting corporations with developing and enhancing their compliance programmes. The head, Ryan Junck, is described as a ‘go-to partner’, bringing vast experience handling cross-border financial crime proceedings and knowledge on market abuse matters to the team, while Elizabeth Robertson focuses on criminal tax cases and governance issues. Andrew Good is an expert on bribery and corruption affairs, regularly working with US enforcement agencies. European counsel Vanessa McGoldrick concentrates on investigations around corporate misconduct. Counsel Bora Rawcliffe is also noted.

Acting on many high-profile, complex financial crime cases in both London and internationally, Willkie Farr & Gallagher (UK) LLP is consistently called on by clients for advice on anti-bribery and corruption, sanctions, and modern slavery-related matters. With a strong European offering, along with a network of US offices, the team is well equipped to manage cross-border investigations brought by domestic and international enforcement agencies, including the SFO, SEC, and US DOJ. Peter Burrell leads the group, focusing on multi-jurisdictional disputes involving financial fraud, tax evasion, and financial reporting issues, while Rita Mitchell concentrates on sanctions and money laundering matters. The ‘really talented’ Simon Osborn-King works on complex criminal and internal investigations for corporates. At the more junior end, Michael Thorne and Cristina Caggiano are noted for their regulatory and civil work.

Representing corporate clients from across the finance, defence, and technology industries, Arnold & Porter’s enforcement and dispute resolution practice specialises in managing cross-border regulatory prosecutions and investigations. The department works closely with its US network of offices, providing a global approach regarding bribery and corruptions issues, along with anti-tax evasion matters. Kathleen Harris heads the London office, bringing vast expertise on regulatory and enforcement proceedings, as well as financial fraud investigations, and Sean Curran is highly experienced in handling multi-jurisdictional prosecutions brought by the SFO, HMRC, and FCA.

The 'brilliant’ Ruby Hamid heads the Ashurst dispute resolution practice, which specialises in multi-jurisdictional financial crime investigations brought by the SFO, FCA, and HMRC. Boasting particular strength across the infrastructure, natural resources, and financial industries, the team consistently represents international and domestic companies on the whole spectrum of financial crime matters and Russian sanctions compliance. Hamid boasts 20 years’ experience of handling complex criminal and investigatory issues, whilst senior associate Neil Donovan has expertise in acting for clients on regulatory enforcement actions involving overseas authorities, such as the US DOJ and AMF. Other key figures include Adam Jamieson, a specialist in regulatory investigations who joined from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner in July 2022, and Elliott Kenton, who concentrates on internal investigations. Ross Denton left the firm in May 2023.

Counting clients from across the energy, natural resources, aviation, and insurance sectors, Clyde & Co’s regulatory and investigations team specialises in all aspects of financial crime, particularly on money laundering and sanctions matters. The practice has extensive experience of handling high-profile domestic and international investigations brought by the SFO, FCA, and HMRC on behalf of financial institutions and major corporations. Charles Kuhn is a regulatory and financial crime specialist, whilst Fergal Cathie focuses on assisting clients with allegations of fraud and dishonesty. John Whittaker leads the internal corporate investigations division, concentrating on anti-bribery and corruption compliance, Rachel Cropper Mawer represents clients on CCO and modern slavery matters.

Offering a joined-up risk advisory, compliance and investigations service, CMS’ practice covers all aspects of corporate criminal and regulatory law, demonstrating special expertise in energy, life sciences, and technology. The team also boasts significant strength in financial services enforcement, sanctions compliance, and data protection, with vast experience in dealing with complex, cross-border prosecutions and investigations. Eoin O’Shea and Omar Qureshi co-head the group, with the former being an expert on fraud and handling SFO investigations, while the latter advises companies on bribery and money laundering issues. Elisabeth Bremner focuses on financial crime compliance, and Alison McHaffie has over 25 years’ experience dealing with financial regulators. Senior associate Amy Wilkinson concentrates on accounting irregularities, and associate Karishma Gadhia looks into civil fraud proceedings.

Counting Fortune 500 companies and global corporations amongst its key clients, Covington & Burling LLP‘s white-collar defence practice has vast expertise in handling cases involving bribery, money laundering, and financial fraud. The team demonstrates strength in supporting clients subject to allegations by the UK and overseas enforcement authorities, ranging from HMRC and the FCA to the SEC and US DoJ. Ian Hargreaves and David Lorello both co-head the group, specialising in dealing with major fraud cases and complex sanction matters. Sarah Bishop is a dual-qualified UK and US lawyer, focusing on AML laws and compliance issues, whilst Mark Finucane is an expert on securities enforcement proceedings.

Boasting substantial experience in advising major banks and financial service providers in global investigations regarding financial fraud, the London-based Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher team works closely with its colleagues in the US, Europe, and Asia. This international network enables the practice to offer comprehensive advice on corporate criminal matters, including bribery and corruption, fraud, and tax evasion, along with demonstrating expertise in dealing with investigations brought by the SFO, FCA, and US DOJ. Philip Rocher leads the department, whilst Sacha Harber-Kelly specialises in global white-collar proceedings. Patrick Doris is an expert on sanctions and tax evasion matters, and Allan Neil represents clients within the finance sector. The ‘excellent’ Matthew Nunan is knowledgeable on financial services regulation, and of counsel Christopher Loudon is also noted.

Representing clients from within the aerospace, construction, extractives, and energy industries, the ‘superb’ team at Greenberg Traurig, LLP provides bespoke advice on anti-bribery, corruption, and money laundering matters. The firm demonstrates strong international capabilities, consistently defending corporations and financial institutions in complex multi-jurisdictional investigations, along with assisting with sanctions and ESG-related compliance. Following Jo Rickards’ departure in January 2023, the ‘outstandingly good’ Rebecca Meads leads the practice, bringing vast expertise on complex fraud and regulatory matters to the department. Senior associate Gavin Costelloe focuses on financial and trade related sanctions since his arrival in April 2022 from the SFO, whilst of counsel Alex Swan’s work encompasses proceedings involving allegations of fraud and money laundering.

With specific sector specialities including commodities, shipping, aerospace, and energy, the global investigations and white-collar defence department at HFW is chosen by clients largely due to its ‘deep experience of SFO investigations’. The practice routinely represents corporates seeking to mitigate criminal and regulatory risk on corporate transactions, with practice head Barry Vitou bringing vast expertise in global money laundering investigations and grand corruption issues to the team. The ‘standout’ Anne-Marie Ottaway has over 20 years’ experience in economic crime-related matters, and Daniel Martin is a sanctions specialist. Cindy Laing joined the group as an associate from BCL Solicitors LLP in April 2022, focusing on bribery and corruption affairs.

Counting publicly listed companies, global investment firms, and foreign governments amongst its key clients, the ‘very pragmatic’ team at Latham & Watkins is highly regarded for its handling of multi-jurisdictional investigations involving broad corruption issues. The practice has developed strong relationships with domestic and international enforcement agencies, ranging from the SFO and FCA to the US DOJ, with co-head Nathan Seltzer regularly representing recognisable brands in the US and globally in high-stakes proceedings. Fellow co-head Stuart Alford KC, is an expert on financial crime and regulatory matters, whilst Clare Nida focuses on allegations of anti-bribery and corruption laws.

Deploying a ‘rational, hard-charged and thorough’ approach when addressing financial crime issues, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius UK LLP represents international banks and global corporations in regulatory and criminal investigations. With special expertise in cases involving insider trading, market abuse, and complex fraud corruption, the team consistently deals with cross-border proceedings brought by international and domestic enforcement authorities, spanning from the SFO to the US DOJ. Melanie Ryan and Chris Warren-Smith both lead the group, providing bespoke advice on tax issues, sanctions breaches, and retail share trading matters. Paul Mesquitta handles complex commercial litigation and arbitration, having been promoted to partner in October 2022.

Peters & Peters Solicitors LLP has extensive experience of acting on behalf of corporations in fraud, corruption, and money laundering proceedings, and international criminal investigations. The firm represents a client-base from a wide array of industries, ranging from energy and mining to retail and finance, and has grown its presence within the sanctions space, particularly since the start of the Ukraine war in February 2022. Nick Vamos heads the team, focusing on export controls and related offences, whilst the ‘superb’ Michael O’Kane has vast expertise in advising companies in high-profile international business crime cases. Jasvinder Nakhwal is an expert on INTERPOL and extradition matters, while Maria Cronin and Anna Bradshaw are noted for their money laundering and insider dealing expertise.

With the investigations technology and client data team being fully integrated into RPC’s white-collar crime practice, the ‘commercially minded’ team offers strong tech-related financial crime advice to a global client-base. The firm also demonstrates a growing presence in the financial trade sanctions arena, acting in the first case before the Commercial Court regarding the interpretation of Russian trade sanctions. The head, Sam Tate, is a ‘walking encyclopedia’, routinely being instructed on political financial crime matters and negotiating DPAs with the SFO, whilst Adam Craggs has expertise in criminal tax proceedings. Davina Given focuses on sanctions and regulatory matters, and Jonathan Cary concentrates on finance disputes. Michelle Sloane is an expert on financial crime litigation, the ’unflappable’ senior associate Lucy Kerr covers all aspects of compliance and policy matters.

With a considerable ‘spread of corporate crime experience’, Stephenson Harwood’s practice has specialists in civil fraud and corporate law, as well as expertise representing corporates facing multi-jurisdictional criminal investigations. The team has extensive knowledge of dealing with complex financial disputes, ranging from market manipulation to anti-money laundering matters. Practice head Sean Jeffrey routinely acts on behalf of corporates in white-collar crime proceedings and sanctions issues, Justin McClelland is an expert on civil disputes and cartel activity, while Philip Clarke handles actions brought by the FCA against banks and insurers. The ‘intelligent, strategic’ Alan Ward regularly advises corporates on regulatory and criminal-law compliance.   Ellen Gallagher is also noted.

Fielding a ‘very responsive and skilled’ outfit, the White & Case LLP white-collar practice has extensive experience of handling multi-jurisdictional investigations brought by domestic and global enforcement authorities in relation to bribery, money laundering, and tax evasion. The team collaborates closely with the firm’s dedicated EU and UK sanctions department, providing bespoke advice to corporations on sanction compliance measures, along with negotiating sanctions clauses in supply and trade agreements. Both Jonah Anderson and Anneka Randhawa head the group, with the former being an AML expert, and the latter addressing financial crime issues and criminal defence. Genevra Forwood focuses on financial sanctions, and counsel Joseph Carroll is also noted.

The WilmerHale practice is headed by ‘the Top Gun in the London white-collar market’, Stephen Pollard, who brings vast expertise in advising clients in high-profile proceedings brought by the SFO, FCA, and NCA. The team’s client list includes notable companies from within the extractives and technology spheres, along with authorities from across the globe, as the department is highly regarded for dealing with proceedings arising from allegations of historic bribery and market manipulation. Richard Burger joined the firm as partner from DWF in January 2023, specialising in complex international regulatory enforcement and criminal investigations, whilst counsel Lloyd Firth focuses on money laundering and tax evasion issues.

Being long-standing and renowned specialists in corporate crime and regulation, the BCL Solicitors LLP team - steered by Richard Sallybanks - is routinely instructed in many significant financial crime investigations conducted by the SFO, HMRC, and the FCA. The firm also has considerable expertise in AML and ESG compliance, with the ‘thoughtful and incisive’ John Binns being a specialist in money laundering matters and corporate criminal offences. Shaul Brazil focuses on sanctions-related compliance issues, while the ‘standout’ Richard Reichman handles regulatory investigations. Julian Hayes concentrates on financial crime affairs, and Anoushka Warlow is noted for her knowledge of serious and commercial fraud.

Demonstrating vast expertise in dealing with complex SFO, FCA, HMRC, and OFSI investigations, Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP’s ‘very personable’ practice acts on behalf of financial institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and media firms. The team is especially strong at handling financial crime matters, including money laundering, anti-corruption, and tax proceedings, as well as having a growing presence in the cryptocurrency and sanctions compliance space. Kevin Roberts heads the team, with the former showing ‘empathy and commitment’ when advising clients in internal investigations, and the latter specialising in fraud and asset-tracing issues. Special counsel Duncan Grieve has experience of managing international investigations brought by the US DOJ and SEC, while associates Charlotte Glaser and Sharon Takhar are also noted.

With a ‘strong and capable team’, Cohen & Gresser (UK) LLP offers full-service capabilities on regulatory investigations, criminal and strategic defence, and AML matters to international corporations and governments. Boasting a background in the SFO, John Gibson co-heads the practice, bringing vast expertise in managing complex economic crime and money laundering proceedings to the group, while fellow co-chair Richard Kovalevsky KC focuses on all aspects of financial crime issues. David Green KC is a ‘legal titan’, specialising in fraud, corruption and bribery matters. Thomas Shortland – who was promoted to partner in January 2023 – is also highly regarded.

Covering both UK and multi-jurisdictional investigations regarding money laundering, fraud, and sanctions issues, the DLA Piper corporate crime team represents a host of clients across the finance, fintech, and life sciences sectors. Laura Ford leads the team, bringing vast expertise in bribery and sanctions issues. Tony Katz focuses on regulatory compliance, and Sam Millar is an expert on financial crime work. Will White is particularly knowledgeable with respect to AML matters. Shabaz Ahmed is also noted. Patrick Rappo left the firm in July 2023.

The corporate crime and investigations practice at Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP shows significant strength in international economic sanctions and AML remediation projects. The team has in-depth knowledge of dealing with domestic enforcement agencies, ranging from the SFO to the FCA, and consistently acts for global corporate clients in anti-bribery and corruption investigations. Manchester-based Zia Ullah heads the group, specialising in international financial sanctions and financial crime. In London, Anupreet Amole provides comprehensive fraud advice, while the ‘hugely experienced’ Steve Smith routinely defends regulatory and criminal proceedings. Also in London, Emma Gordon concentrates on cross-border investigations.

A ‘truly client-focused firm’, the Fieldfisher commercial crime practice is highly regarded for its work on behalf of companies in the extractives, energy, and infrastructure industries, handling major corporate criminal investigations and prosecutions. The team regularly assists corporations in high-profile cross-border investigations brought by the SFO and FCA, deploying both barristers and solicitors in their team to act both as litigators and as trial counsel. Practice head Quinton Newcomb possesses almost two decades of experience prosecuting and defending in financial crime proceedings, while Shiv Haria-Shah - praised for their 'exceptional quality, time and time again' - is an expert on compliance measures. William Glover works on corporate investigations. Noteworth new arrivals include Priyanka Kapoor, who joined from PCB Byrne in July 2022, and Natalie Quinlivan, who joined from King & Wood Mallesons in December 2022.

Jenner & Block LLP has in-depth expertise in the whole spectrum of corporate investigation and advisory work, with a client-base consisting of energy, finance, and pharmaceutical companies. The practice offers strategic advice to corporations subjected to allegations of bribery, sanctions violations, money laundering, and fraud, along with boasting vast experience in dealing with the SFO, EA, and other domestic agencies. Christine Braamskamp leads the group, bringing ‘superior knowledge’ on financial misconduct and criminal investigations to the team, whilst Paul Feldberg focuses on sanctions and money laundering issues. Rob Dalling regularly acts for financial institutions, and special counsel Lucy Blake handles human rights and supply chain abuses.

The investigations and white-collar practice at Jones Day works closely with its civil fraud team, advising on the gamut of corporate criminal investigations and asset-tracing, recovery and enforcement actions. Drawing on a sizeable network of offices across multiple jurisdictions, the group is routinely called upon to deal with cross-border white-collar crime proceedings brought by the SFO, US DOJ, and SEC. Both Sion Richards and Glyn Powell co-head the department, each specialising in major fraud, corruption, and economic crime matters. Adam Brown advises both corporates and financial institutions, while the ‘tremendously perceptive’ Karl Moussalli focuses on complex international litigation and arbitration.

Acting for clients across the retail, energy, and property sectors, King & Spalding LLP is highly experienced in financial crime cases for top-end companies and financial institutions. The practice demonstrates considerable strength in the sanctions and export control sphere, along with using its bench strength on both sides of the Atlantic to its advantage in US-UK mandates. Aaron Stephens heads the team, consistently assisting clients facing financial crime investigations and compliance challenges, while Margaret Nettesheim focuses on cross-border regulatory proceedings. Former co-head Robert Dedman left the firm in December 2022.

Boasting ‘proper criminal lawyers with commercial edge’, Kingsley Napley LLP’s criminal litigation team expertly covers cross-border corporate investigations spanning the full range of criminal matters. This includes traditional white-collar crime cases ranging from fraud to tax evasion, along with demonstrating strong expertise on ESG, human rights compliance, and regulatory proceedings. Louise Hodges leads, specialising in financial crime and FCA investigations, whilst Caroline Day frequently advises companies on criminal and regulatory matters. The ‘exceptional’ Alun Milford focuses on the proceeds of crime litigation, while Jonathan Grimes routinely conducts internal investigations. Nicola Finnerty and Jill Lorimer are also both highly regarded.

Combining extensive expertise as regulatory counsel with deep experience of advising clients on investigations and criminal defence matters, the Mayer Brown International LLP team frequently represents companies from within the finance, mining, and defence sectors. Drawing upon its strong global platform, the practice is well equipped to lead work on investigations into alleged crime conducted by the SFO and US DOJ. Practice head Alistair Graham regularly addresses complex fraud proceedings and international asset tracing, while Sam Eastwood advises corporations on anti-corruption and human rights issues. Jason Hungerford focuses on compliance work, while Musonda Kapotwe concentrates on ESG regulations.

Headed by the ‘wonderfully imaginative and thoughtful’ Simon Airey, the McDermott Will & Emery UK LLP corporate crime practice has extensive expertise in HMRC, SFO, and FCA investigations. The team shows considerable strength in handling cross-border proceedings, routinely dealing with the US DoJ and SEC, along with advising clients on regulatory compliance issues. Airey specialises in global proceedings surrounding tax and financial crime, associate James Dobias is described as being ‘destined for great things’ due to his knowledge of anti-money laundering and bribery matters, whilst William Merry focuses on corruption and fraud affairs.

Best known for dealing with complex cross-border financial crime corruption, bribery and money laundering investigations, Morrison Foerster’s global client base rate the team for its ‘pragmatic and agile mindset’. The team also has an increased offering in the sanctions field, advising corporations and financial institutions with highly sensitive compliance matters relating to UK, EU, and US sanctions. The department is jointly headed by Saqib Alam, who assists companies with regulatory investigations; Hayley Ichilcik, a specialist in AML and tax evasion matters; and Gareth Rees KC, whose areas of expertise include sanctions and fraud. Paul Friedman is an expert on cross-border disputes. Of counsel Chloe Kearns is also noted.

Described as ‘true experts’ in the white-collar crime field, the Pinsent Masons LLP practice has considerable experience conducting investigations for multinational companies regarding corporate bribery, fraud, and AML. Working closely with colleagues in Africa, Central Asia, Asia-Pacific, and Europe, the team offers extensive support to clients in multi-jurisdictional crime enforcement agency proceedings, as well as providing general advice in relation to sanctions compliance. The two co-heads, Neil NcInnes and Andrew Sackey, frequently handle complex international and internal investigations concerning allegations of economic crime and sanctions violations. Stacy Keen works on anti-bribery risk assessments, while Tom Stocker is noted for his expertise in bribery and money laundering matters. Natalie Sherborn left the firm in April 2022.

Counting companies from the pharmaceutical, technology, and sports industries amongst its client-base, the Reed Smith LLP team specialises heavily in US, UK, and EU sanctions issues, along with complex internal investigations. The practice is jointly led by Rosanne Kay and Charles Hewetson, each of whom bring in-depth expertise in financial crime proceedings and regulatory investigations. Leigh Hansson is an ‘excellent sanctions lawyer’ who focuses primarily on Russian sanctions violations, while Emma Shafton covers white-collar criminal defence issues. The team continues to grow with the addition of Patrick Rappo in July 2023 from DLA Piper.

Displaying a ‘broad breadth of experience’, the Ropes & Gray LLP anti-corruption and international risk practice is comprised of lawyers with deep expertise in money laundering, fraud, and sanctions violations. The firm’s strength and depth in the UK, US, and Asia, means the group is well equipped to deal with multi-jurisdictional investigations brought by domestic and international enforcement agencies. Amanda Raad leads the London-based offering, specialising in internal and regulatory proceedings concerning FCPA risk and global corruption risk, while US-trained lawyer Sean Seelinger focuses on government inquiries and whistleblower allegations. Paige Berges concentrates on AML matters and economic sanctions issues.

Covering the whole spectrum of financial crime matters, Sidley Austin LLP’s white-collar practice routinely represents domestic and global corporations in cross-border investigations. The firm shows particular strength in high-profile money laundering cases, as well as ensuring that its clients have robust internal compliance procedures to tackle corruption. London-based Sara George leads the practice, drawing on her experience as a former prosecutor for the Financial Services Authority to expertly advise on matters concerning allegations of criminal misconduct and market abuse.

With a former prosecutor, barristers, and former in-house counsel, the Squire Patton Boggs team has multi-faceted experience which is combines with its ‘exceptional international reputation’. The practice is well equipped to cover all aspects of corporate crime investigations, including fraud, money laundering, and the misuse of public funds, and demonstrates a growing presence in the ESG and compliance sphere. Practice head Hannah Laming, is a ‘hardworking, decisive lawyer’ who frequently represents clients from across the finance, energy, and media sectors, while Wayne Barnes regularly handles complex internal investigations. The ‘hugely impressive’ Ben Ticehurst has a track record of defending clients in SFO and FCA proceedings, and Jonathan Chibafa is knowledgeable on ESG compliance and supply chain risk management.

With more than 25 years of experience in the regulatory and corporate crime market, the ‘highly professional’ team at Bivonas Law LLP represents a vast network of clients, including financial institutions, hotel groups, and advertising companies. The practice has considerable experience of dealing with major prosecutions and investigations brought by the SFO, FCA, and HMRC, revolving around bribery allegations, money laundering, and serious fraud. Antony Brown co-heads the group, drawing on his civil and criminal fraud expertise to handle complex cross-border prosecutions, while fellow co-chairs Steve Sharp and Cindy Dorrington both handle regulatory and corporate investigations, and high-profile criminal cases.

Praised by clients for its ‘outstanding’ business crime and investigations group, Dentons advises regulators, governments, and corporate clients in multi-jurisdictional proceedings relating to fraud, money laundering, and corruption. The department also offers in-depth expertise in both trade and financial sanctions, demonstrating particular strength on sanctions policy, law-making and licensing developed in the UK and EU. Katharine Harle and Louisa Caswell co-lead the practice, bringing extensive financial crime experience to the team, while Chris Brennan shows ‘excellent judgment’ when solving regulatory issues. Roger Matthews focuses on international trade and sanctions, while Dan Lund is also recommended for his expertise in financial crime.

Counting multinational corporations and FTSE 250 companies amongst its key clients, the K&L Gates LLP practice draws upon its ‘wealth of experience’ to offer bespoke advice on regulatory matters and cross-border business crime cases. The team has a strong track record in high-profile SFO and FRC investigations, using its network of US offices when addressing AML, fraud, and bribery proceedings spanning across many different jurisdictions. The ‘bright, practical’ Dylan Moses leads the practice, frequently dealing with complex health and safety prosecutions, while Brian Saulnier focuses on corruption-related issues. Michael Ruck handles regulatory compliance, working closely with domestic and foreign regulators. Rose Naylor is also noted.

Pallas Partners LLP’s investigations and financial crime practice has extensive expertise in dealing with multi-jurisdictional investigations involving allegations of bribery and money laundering, conducted by domestic and overseas enforcement agencies. The firm has a strong offering in the sanctions space, boasting specialists on UK and EU sanctions along with data protection issues. Matt Getz and Tracey Dovaston both head the team, with the former being a ‘top-notch’ performer who focuses on white-collar defence and regulatory compliance, whilst the ‘very experienced’ latter handles complex financial services investigations. Solicitor Natasha Harrison concentrates on arbitration disputes, and counsel Alessia de Quincey is knowledgeable on financial crime cases.

Representing major private equity firms and international corporations, Steptoe UK LLP offers a ‘highly bespoke specialist service’ on complex financial crime investigations pertaining to corruption, money laundering, and tax evasion. The team frequently handles work related to regulatory enforcement, sanctions and anti-money laundering issues, bolstered by its experience of dealing with the OFSI, the SFO, and the FCA. Following the departure of former practice head John Rupp, the team is headed by Zoe Osborne, who specialises in cross-border financial crime proceedings. Alexandra Melia focuses on UK sanctions and export controls, while Ivan Gordienko is knowledgeable on commercial litigation. Other key figures include Leigh Mallon, who conducts special investigations and compliance audits.

Acting on behalf of clients in the technology, pharmaceutical, and finance industries, Taylor Wessing LLP advises on the full scope of financial crime, routinely dealing with cross-border investigations involving HMRC enquiries, tax fraud, and insider trading. The team is experienced in crypto exchange and investment disputes, with co-head David De Ferrars boasting expertise in fraud and asset tracing within the technology sector. Fellow co-head Andrew Howell is an expert on complex regulatory investigations, while Tim Strong handles international commercial disputes. Both Laurence Lieberman and Richard Viegas regularly represent financial institutions and accountancy firms. Other key figures include 'standout practitioner' David McCluskey.

With broad expertise in the financial crime, corporate criminal liability, and sanctions spheres, the Withers LLP team is highly regarded by its domestic and international client-base. Through close collaboration between its London and global network of offices, the practice demonstrates ‘an inclusive breadth of knowledge’ in relation to high-profile extradition and INTERPOL matters, along with managing multi-jurisdictional proceedings brought by the SFO and FCA. The ’impressive’ Natalie Sherborn - who joined the firm in May 2022 from Pinsent Masons LLP - co-leads the group, where she focuses on major bribery and fraud investigations. Fellow co-head Carl Newman specialises in dealing with SFO, HMRC, and NCA prosecutions, while Harvey Knight is an expert on regulatory compliance measures.