Firm Profile > Rahman Ravelli > Halifax, England
Rahman Ravelli Offices
ROMA HOUSE
59 PELLON LANE
HALIFAX
HX1 5BE
England
Rahman Ravelli > The Legal 500 Rankings
Crime: fraud Tier 1
Rahman Ravelli stands out nationally for its fraud work, with substantial expertise in white-collar crime, corporate crime, money laundering and tax evasion. The group also has a niche specialism in deferred prosecution agreements alongside a key international element to its practice, regularly handling global fraud investigations. The 'hugely knowledgeable' Aziz Rahman leads the practice, legal director Nicola Sharp specialises in fraud, civil recovery and business crime work, senior associate Lorraine Gallen handles MTIC fraud matters, and legal director Syedur Rahman - 'a creative thinker who goes the extra mile' - has notable cryptocurrency experience.
Testimonials
‘Rahman Ravelli is undoubtedly the leading fraud firm in the area. It has a nationwide profile and has developed an excellent international white-collar crime pre-charge and litigation team. The extent and jurisdictional reach of the practice makes it close to unique in the North‘.
‘The team is uniquely close knit and inter-supportive and is able to pool complementary skills and experience to the ultimate benefits of its clients. It has expert and admirable client-handling skills, and focused and foresighted strategic awareness‘.
‘The firm is the leader in the field for high-value and complex civil fraud and criminal fraud proceedings in England‘.
‘The team is a tightknit group focused on the intersection between criminal law and civil work. Small enough to be nimble but with enough depth to handle the best cases‘.
‘Aziz Rahman is a standout practitioner with exceptional inter-personal skills who is able to see the heart of the case at a very early stage and prepare a strategy that gets exceptional results‘.
‘Aziz Rahman is hugely knowledgeable and a real fighter in protecting clients’ interests‘.
‘Associate Nicola Sharp is a star in the making. She handles cases extremely well, has a determined approach to litigation and is never fazed no matter how complex the case‘.
‘Syed Rahman is a creative thinker who goes the extra mile.’
‘Syed Rahman is a favourite of clients and has a charming manner. He is a master of detail and lavishes care and attention on even the smallest point to good effect.’
‘Syedur Rahman is incredibly down to earth and hard working. He is a real grafter who entirely devotes himself to his cases. He is probably one of the most driven solicitors I work with.’
Rahman Ravelli > Firm Profile
With offices in the City of London, Birmingham and Yorkshire, Rahman Ravelli is a national and international leader in serious and corporate fraud, white-collar crime, bribery and corruption, regulatory matters, complex crime, civil recovery and commercial litigation.
The firm: Since it was established in 2001, the practice has built an enviable reputation in the sectors it operates in. It has earned a strong national and international presence by defending the most significant, high-profile, multi-jurisdictional and multi-agency cases robustly and effectively and by managing high-stakes commercial litigation to obtain the best possible outcome. Its caseload here and abroad grows annually.
Its recent work includes some of the largest and most high-profile global corruption investigations, involvement in some of the UK’s first deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) negotiations and cross-border investment fraud cases. It has become increasingly popular with corporates and senior executives looking to investigate and self-report wrongdoing in order to achieve a civil, rather than a criminal, solution to a problem. The firm is also utilised by corporates and high net worth individuals for its investigative and legal expertise in international and multi-jurisdictional asset tracing and recovery work.
Rahman Ravelli’s track record of success, ability to recruit top-ranking lawyers, expertise and attention to detail have led to it being recommended to others by past and present clients, other law firms and professionals. Its strong, innovative and robust, proactive approach coupled with its network of worldwide experts has attracted clients from all over the world who need to resolve bribery and corruption allegations, corporate matters, tax investigations and regulatory issues. The firm is available around the clock and anywhere in the world to discuss its core specialisms of serious fraud, serious and white-collar crime, bribery and corruption and civil recovery, as well as defence against actions brought by regulatory bodies.
Types of work undertaken: The firm is known for its tenacious defence of clients’ interests in the face of attacks by governments and agencies. It regularly challenges allegations made by bodies such as the SFO, NCA, FCA and City of London Police and international organisations such as Interpol, FBI, OLAF and the SEC.
Fraud: Rahman Ravelli’s serious fraud expertise includes commercial fraud and business crime defence services, major tax fraud, international corruption and money laundering. SFO prosecutions are a speciality, with acquittals achieved in the UK’s largest-ever investment fraud trial and many large-scale, high-profile cases. HMRC defences, MTIC fraud and BIS, DTI and OFT investigations are handled by its experts.
Bribery/corruption: Rahman Ravelli works on bribery and corruption cases here and overseas that routinely involve billions of dollars, governments and companies of all sizes and from all industry sectors. It advises international companies regarding compliance and internal investigations. The firm’s client list includes corporates and professionals from all sectors, senior officials, high-net-worth individuals and members of the public being investigated by one or more agencies. Its caseload sees it representing the likes of lawyers, IFA’s, accountants, surveyors and bankers, as well as those working in the health and education sectors, charities, the Royal household, forex, pensions, mining and environmental schemes, motor transport and real estate.
Property fraud: Rahman Ravelli handles many of the biggest property fraud cases, including one which almost collapsed a major high-street bank. Rahman Ravelli regularly handles FCA matters and is instructed in major investment fraud cases involving hundreds of millions of pounds.
Regulatory: The firm’s regulatory department handles national and international cases; representing professionals and advising companies, including PLC’s, on corporate risk. Its serious crime expertise includes experience of complex, large-scale conspiracy allegations. The firm has developed specialist knowledge in tackling covert policing evidence relating to the right to privacy; including directed and intrusive surveillance, covert human intelligence sources and entrapment issues – techniques increasingly adopted by investigative bodies. The practice has experience in the fields of abuse of process and public interest immunity. Its case of R v H and C established the law in this area in the House of Lords in 2004. The case is the leading authority on disclosure and brought about a sweeping change regarding prosecution obligations on disclosure – an area where the firm excels.
Civil recovery: Rahman Ravelli’s expertise includes NCA, SFO, HMRC and CPS cases, here and abroad. Its powerful defence arguments saw it take the case of Gale to the Supreme Court and the European Court of Human Rights to protect the clients’ assets. The case defined important civil recovery issues and was the first such case to reach these courts. It also handles cases that involve unexplained wealth orders, which give authorities the chance to take assets from those they suspect of wrongdoing.
Commercial litigation including civil fraud: The firm regularly and aggressively challenges worldwide freezing orders, defends multijurisdictional actions and pursues corporate wrongdoing. Rahman Ravelli is adept at bringing civil fraud proceedings and conducting asset tracing and recovery actions for clients globally.
Main Contacts
| Department | Name | Telephone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senior and managing partner | Aziz Rahman | ||
| Corporate and financial crime | Aziz Rahman | ||
| Corporate and financial crime | Nicola Sharp | ||
| Corporate and financial crime | Neil Williams | ||
| Corporate and financial crime | Syed Rahman | ||
| Complex crime | Paula Berry | ||
| Complex crime | Shaff Rahman | ||
| Asset recovery and restraint | Syed Rahman | ||
| Regulatory and commercial litigation | Syed Rahman | ||
| Regulatory and commercial litigation | Nicola Sharp | ||
| Internal investigations and risk management | Syed Rahman | ||
| Internal investigations and risk management | Nicola Sharp | ||
| Internal investigations and risk management | Aziz Rahman | ||
| Serious and general crime | Zahir Ayoub |
Lawyer Profiles
| Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Mr Aziz Rahman | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of UK partners : 1 Number of legal directors : 3 Number of other UK fee-earners : 15Press Releases
Trading Abroad And Money Laundering Risks
Aziz Rahman explains what those trading internationally need to do to ensure they are not targeted by money launderers.
The Future For Corporate Liability
With the government looking at how to change the law when it comes to prosecuting companies, Aziz Rahman considers the possibilities.
Payment Regulations And Compliance
Ben Ticehurst explains why new regulations regarding company payment practices are a sharp reminder of the need to be legally compliant.
Money Laundering Obligations And Property Professionals
With the housing market facing further scrutiny regarding money laundering, Aziz Rahman outlines what those working in the property sector must do to stay within the law.
The Rolls-royce Dpa – Lessons That Can Be Learnt
Aziz Rahman outlines the lessons that corporates and senior executives under investigation can learn from the huge Rolls-Royce bribery settlement.
Carbon Credit Fraud – Avoiding The Pitfalls
Neil Williams and Aziz Rahman explain the need to make sure your involvement in a carbon credits scheme stays on the right side of the law.
Tackling Business Crime In Your Workplace
Failure to prevent fraud and other business crime can prove costly to companies. Ben Ticehurst and Aziz Rahman consider what can be done to identify wrongdoing and the options available when it is found.
Defending Sfo Accusations
Aziz Rahman explains how the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) builds a case – and how it can be challenged.
Challenging Prosecution Allegations At The Investigation Stage
The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has decided not to prosecute Soma Oil and Gas regarding corruption in Somalia, due to insufficient evidence. Aziz Rahman looks at what insufficient evidence means and how to challenge prosecution allegations.
The Jp Morgan Scandal And The Definition Of Bribery
JP Morgan is paying $264M to settle allegations of bribery over its hiring of children of key Chinese decision makers to try and secure business. Aziz Rahman explains what constitutes bribery and how to prevent it.
Identifying And Investigating Investment Fraud
Autonomy’s chief financial officer has been charged with fraud over allegations he misled investors. But what is investment fraud? And what are your options if you are defrauded? Aziz Rahman and Neil Williams explain.
Bringing A Private Prosecution
Aziz Rahman and Ben Ticehurst explain what you can do if you have fraud committed against you or your company.
Preventing Fraud And Money Laundering
The government wants corporate executives charged when their staff carry out offences such as fraud and money laundering. How can you make sure you’re not one of those prosecuted?
Bitter Pill
Aziz Rahman explains why the latest pharmaceutical bribery scandal emphasises the need for companies to have a strong compliance policy.
No Avoiding It
Accountants and advisors could face tougher fines for helping clients avoid paying tax. So how can they make sure they do not fall foul of the law?
Fair Trade?
Aziz Rahman explains the difference between wrongful and fraudulent trading and outlines what those in business need to know to avoid being accused of either.
Collapse
Aziz Rahman examines some of the issues involved before, during and after a company collapses.
Damage Limitation
Putting right the wrongs and minimising the damage when your company is accused of business crime.
Lengthy Sfo Investigations
Aziz Rahman considers whether SFO investigations could be concluded quicker.
Pensions and the risk of fraud
What those working in pensions must do to avoid being a victim of fraud – or being accused of it.
Why Those In Finance Must Tackle Money Laundering
With the authorities looking for more ways of tackling money laundering, Aziz Rahman explains why those working in finance must stop it for themselves.
Insolvency And Criminal Investigations
Rahman Ravelli’s Nicola Sharp and Syedur Rahman explain the importance of early legal advice when facing questions regarding a company’s collapse.
Legal Developments
Parallel Proceedings – Civil And Criminal
Syedur Rahmanconsiders the factors that determine when civil proceedings can go ahead before,or at the same time as, criminal proceedings relating to the same circumstances.
Sfo Guidance, Privilege And Internal Investigations: Some Brief Advice For Corporates
Neil Williams outlines the legal situation regarding privileged material and the most recent SFO advice on corporate cooperation.Businesses, App Fraud And Recovering Losses
A new code of conductaims to give individuals greater protection against authorised push payment(APP) fraud. Syedur Rahman explains what the best available options are forbusinesses looking to recover such losses.
The Competition And Markets Authority: New Powers And The Need For Compliance
With the Competition and Markets Authority set to gain greater powers, Rahman Ravelli’s Legal Director Nicola Sharp outlines the importance of compliance for both companies and their directors.The Fifth Money Laundering Directive And The Uk
With the UK government’sconsultation period on the European Union’s Fifth Money Laundering Directive coming to an end, AzizRahman outlines the Directive's likely effect.Taking The Right Steps To Ensure You Do Not Commit The Offence Of Failure To Prevent The Facilitatio
Nicola Sharp outlines what needs to be done to avoid thefailure to prevent offence that was introduced by the Criminal Finances Act.The Right Way To Report A Company’s Failure To Prevent The Facilitation Of Tax Evasion
Self-reporting such a failure can be used as part of thecompany or partnership’s reasonable procedures defence if it is charged with anoffence. It can also be taken into account by prosecutors when making adecision about whether to prosecute and can be reflected in any penalties thatare imposedWhat General Counsel Need To Know About Money Laundering
WHAT GENERAL COUNSEL NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MONEY LAUNDERING
Nicola Sharp explains what money laundering is and outlineshow businesses can reduce the dangers it can pose.
Account Freezing Orders: Why We Can Expect More Of Them. A Practical Guide
With account freezing orders havingbeen used for the first time, Aziz Rahman of Rahman Ravelli examines theireffectiveness and considers why they may come to be used frequently
Unexplained Wealth Orders: Their Potential And The Right Way To Respond If Faced With One
Aziz Rahman considers why we may see an increase inunexplained wealth orders (UWO’s) and the implications for law enforcement and individuals.
Deferred Prosecution Agreements: The Best Option? Or A Flawed Idea?
Tescoadmitted wrongdoing over its accounting scandal in order to obtain a deferredprosecution agreement and avoid a conviction. But with everyone charged overthe scandal having been cleared, Aziz Rahman examines whether the deferredprosecution agreement process needs revising.
Deferred Prosecution Agreements: Obtaining One And Seeing It Through To Completion
With Standard Bank having become the first organisation to conclude a DPA, Aziz Rahman explains why gaining one is only the start of the challenge.
Dismissal At Nissan And Workplace Crime Prevention
The sacking of Nissan’s high-profile chairman may have beenproof that nobody is infallible. But Nicola Sharp argues that it should also beseen as an indicator that no company can be considered safe from wrongdoing.
Bribery Allegations In More Than One Jurisdiction: The Importance Of Ensuring A Joined-up Defence Ap
Aziz Rahman considers the Ericsson bribery investigation and outlines how best to respond if you are investigated by more than one law enforcement agency
Bribery And The Risk It Poses To Technology Companies
With Microsoft’s activities in Hungary having come underinvestigation, Nicola Sharp explains why those at the cutting edge oftechnology need to be aware of the age-old dangers of bribery.
Obtaining A Dpa
With the SFO laying down tough conditions to those seeking adeferred prosecution agreement (DPA), Aziz Rahman examines what companies need todo to have a chance of securing one.
Dealing With Agencies That Investigate Business Crime
Aziz Rahman outlines the powers and functions of the Serious Fraud Office, Financial Conduct Authority and National Crime Agency and explains how defence teams should respond to them.
Conducting An Internal Investigation
Nicola Sharp and Syedur Rahman explain the value to companies of internal investigations and the importance of carrying them out correctly.
Preventing Money Laundering In The Gambling Industry
With a bookmaker being ordered to pay millions for failing to prevent money laundering, Nicola Sharp and Syedur Rahman examine how the gambling industry can tackle the problem.
Failing To Prevent Bribery
Following the first conviction of a company for failure toprevent bribery, Aziz Rahman considers the implications of the case for thosein business.
Money Laundering And The Gambling Industry
With a bookmaker being ordered to pay millions for failingto prevent money laundering, Nicola Sharp and Syedur Rahman examine how thegambling industry can tackle the problem.
How To Prevent Workplace Fraud
Aziz Rahman examines the scale of fraud in business andexplains how it can be prevented, identified and reported.
Politically Exposed Persons And The Legal Restrictions They Face
Aziz Rahman and Ben Ticehurst consider the Novartis scandaland the business restrictions on those holding high office.
Corporate Liability And The Individual
With much still to be decided regarding the prosecution ofindividuals over the financial scandals at Rolls-Royce and Tesco, Aziz Rahmanexamines how the fate of investigated companies can differ to that of those whoworked for them.
Defending Yourself When International Bribery Allegations Are Made
Syedur Rahman and Nicola Sharp explain how corporates shouldrespond if investigated over bribery allegations abroad.
Unexplained Wealth Orders
With unexplained wealth orders now part of UK law, Aziz Rahman assesses their likely effect and how people should respond to them.
Vat And Dubai
With Value Added Taxnow a part of business in Dubai, Aziz Rahman and Ben Ticehurst consider theprecautions that those in business must take.
How Executives Can Protect Themselves If A Company Collapses
Syedur Rahman and Nicola Sharp take an overview of the Carillion crisis and explain how those who ran a failed company can defend themselves
Airbus And The Risks Of Bribery Across Borders
Syedur Rahman and Nicola Sharp examine the risks of bribery in international trade and how corporates should respond if they face such allegations.
Investment Fraud And Dishonesty
Aziz Rahman explains the latest legal test for dishonesty and its importance in investment fraud cases.
The Paradise Papers – Defending Tax Evasion Allegations
Aziz Rahman considers how anyone under investigation following the Paradise Papers leaks can mount the strongest possible defence.
What Accountants Must Do To Avoid Money Laundering Accusations
With the Treasury warning about accountants’ vulnerability to money laundering, Aziz Rahman examines what they can do to protectthemselves.
The Rise Of The Dpa
With deferred prosecution agreements (DPA’s) now part of theFrench, UK and US legal systems, Aziz Rahman explains their value – and how toobtain one.
Collusion And Competition Law
Syedur Rahman and Nicola Sharp look at the Financial ConductAuthority’s action to tackle alleged breaches of competition law.
The Need To Prevent Money Laundering – Everywhere
China is toughening its money laundering prevention by taking a closer look at many more business sectors. Aziz Rahman explains the thinking behind this – and what it means for everyone trading abroad.
Compliance After The Event In Bribery And Corruption Cases
Syedur Rahman and Nicola Sharp examine the merits of compliance committees and how improving your compliance measures can help you, even while you are under investigation, in global corruption cases.
Formula One, Bribery And The Serious Fraud Office
Aziz Rahman explains why the SFO’s enquiries into Formula One are relevant to all senior executives and corporates.
The Sfo, The Future And Securing A Dpa
Now that the SFO’s future appears assured, Aziz Rahman considers what this means for those seeking deferred prosecution agreements.
Challenging Witness Credibility
The SFO has been criticised for its use of an expert witness in trials. Aziz Rahman examines how the SFO can be challenged over its use of such witnesses.
Health And Safety: The Corporate Implications
Syedur Rahman and Nicola Sharp consider how companies can minimise the problems that can be posed by health and safety prosecutions.
Automation And Money Laundering
Aziz Rahman explains how automation can bring its own risks of money laundering – and how they can be reduced.
Increased Insolvency Powers
Ben Ticehurst explains the new powers at the Insolvency Service’s disposal – and what those in business need to do to ensure they do not fall foul of them.
Managing The Problem Of Bribery In High-risk Countries
Aziz Rahman considers the corruption problems energy and resources companies have encountered and assesses how they can be minimised.
The Serious Fraud Office: Ways To Deal With It
Aziz Rahman explains how to respond to a Serious Fraud Office (SFO) investigation in order to secure the best outcome.
Making Sure You Do Enough To Prevent Money Laundering
With money laundering coming under ever-closer scrutiny, Aziz Rahman explains why you need to make sure your preventative measures are good enough.
Emissions Testing And Fraud
Porsche is the latest car maker to be investigated over emissions test fraud. Syedur Rahman and Nicola Sharp explain the wide-ranging effects of workplace fraud and the way to eradicate it.
Frc Investigations
The Financial Reporting Council appears to be taking a tougher stance. Aziz Rahman explains what auditors must do to avoid falling fall of it.
The Dangers Of Cartels.
Syedur Rahman and Nicola Sharp consider two recent cartel cases and examine why businesses must take care not to become involved in such behaviour.
The Sfo And Section Two Interviews: Why Robust Defence Is Needed
Aziz Rahman explains why the SFO’s insistence that solicitors cannot be present for interviews under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice Act can be and should be challenged.
The Fourth Eu Anti-money Laundering Directive: What It Means For Business
With the Directive coming into effect, Aziz Rahman examines its implications.
The Huge Costs Of Bribery
Aziz Rahman looks at the case of Petrofac, explains how bribery can ruin a company and emphasises what must be done to prevent it.
Cross-border Investigations
The huge Petrobras bribery scandal has engulfed companies in many countries. Syedur Rahman and Nicola Sharp explain what needs to be done if your company is investigated in more than one country.
Corruption: How To Defend Yourself
Aziz Rahman outlines why allegations of corruption in football should act as a warning to everyone in business about the need to prevent wrongdoing.
Challenging Fca Accusations
Nicola Sharp and Syedur Rahman explain how changes to the way the FCA investigates cases will make it easier for companies and individuals to negotiate the best possible outcome.
Obtaining A Dpa
With deferred prosecution agreements (DPA’s) becoming more common, Aziz Rahman considers how a company under investigation can enhance its chances of obtaining one in order to avoid prosecution.
What The Criminal Finances Bill Means For Asset Seizure And Forfeiture
Syedur Rahman and Nicola Sharp examine the changes likely when the Criminal Finances Bill becomes law.
The Policing And Crime Act 2017
Aziz Rahman talks through the Act’s implications for those in business in the UK.
Tesco: A Question Of Corporate Criminal Liability?
Aziz Rahman examines what the deferred prosecution agreement the supermarket giant has reached with the SFO may mean for other corporates.
The Laundromat Saga: The Fca And Money Laundering Risks
With banks being investigated over alleged Russian money laundering, Aziz Rahman examines the precautions financial professionals must take.
THE MAIN ASPECTS OF THE SANCTIONS AND ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING ACT
Syedur Rahman ofRahman Ravelli outlines the powers and obligations created by the Act that areset to come into force when Brexit is completed.THE UK AND THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AREA – THE APPLICATION OF STRONG CUSTOMER AUTHENTICATION (SCA) UN
Neil Williams ofRahman Ravelli explains the reasons behind the UK’s delayed implementation ofSCA and the effect it has on transactions that go beyond its borders.WHAT THE FINANCIAL CONDUCT AUTHORITY GUIDANCE ON CRYPTOASSETS MEANS FOR THOSE IN THE MARKET
The FCA’s Guidanceprovides clarity in the evolving cryptoassets market. Syedur Rahman of RahmanRavelli explains its implications.MULTI-AGENCY INVESTIGATIONS: HOW AGENCIES APPROACH THEM AND HOW THOSE INVESTIGATED SHOULD RESPOND
Syedur Rahman of Rahman Ravelli details the issues involved when more than one agency investigates wrongdoing and explains how these should be assessed by thesubject of the investigation.THE FINANCIAL CONDUCT AUTHORITY, THE WOODFORD DEBACLE AND RULE CHANGES
Nicola Sharp of Rahman Ravelli considers the problems suffered by those who invested with NeilWoodford, criticism of the FCA’s approach to the crisis and the value of newFCA rules on liquidity.CARTEL BEHAVIOUR: DEFINING IT AND DEFENCES TO IT
Syedur Rahman of Rahman Ravelli defines cartel behaviour and outlines the relevant legislation.FREEZING CRYPTOASSETS
Syedur Rahman of Rahman Ravelli details the legal and practical issues affecting the freezing of virtual currencies.EVALUATING COMPLIANCE PROGRAMMES – THE SERIOUS FRAUD OFFICE’S GUIDANCE
Rahman Ravelli’s Aziz Rahman details the main points in the Serious Fraud Office’s just-published guidance on assessing the compliance programmes of companies under investigation.MISCONDUCT: THE FINANCIAL REPORTING COUNCIL’S VIEW
Nicola Sharp ofRahman Ravelli explains the significance of a Financial Reporting Council (FRC)Tribunal decision regarding misconduct.THE REGISTRATION OF OVERSEAS ENTITIES BILL
Neil Williams of Rahman Ravelli explains the thinking behind the Bill, the measures it contains and the proposed civil and criminal penalties it may carry.CIVIL LITIGATION: USING PART 36 OFFERS TO SETTLE A DISPUTE EARLY
Syedur Rahman of Rahman Ravelli outlines the scope that Part 36 of the Civil Procedures Rules offers to resolve civil litigation before it reaches court, including the recent development of a nil offer.TRUSTEE CLAIMANTS’ ABILITY TO USE NORWICH PHARMACAL RELIEF AND BANKERS TRUST ORDERS TO RECOVER MIS
Syedur Rahman ofRahman Ravelli considers a case with significance for those acting as trusteeswho are seeking to recover assets.