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England - London Bar
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Proceeds of crime (POCA) and asset forfeiture

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33 Chancery Lane

More information
33 Chancery Lane remains one of the ‘strongest chambers nationally for POCA’, offering expertise in criminal and civil asset recovery, account freezing and confiscation orders, and advisory work regarding sanctions-related POCA issues. Andrew Mitchell KC acts for the Turks and Caicos Islands prosecuting authorities in the ongoing prosecution and civil recovery of high-ranking public figures arising out of charges of corruption, fraud and money laundering. Kennedy Talbot KC is involved in complex confiscation proceedings following an attempt to smuggle cocaine worth £32m into the UK, while Martin Evans KC acts for the CPS in a civil recovery case surrounding a cryptocurrency wallet held by a UK citizen living in the UAE. Joining as Chief Executive and Director of Clerking in August 2024, Sam Carter brings a wealth of experience to the clerking team.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Martin Adams and his team are easy to deal with and willing to accommodate late instructions. They are always willing to go that extra yard to assist those instructing chambers.'
  • 'The clerk team provide an excellent service, particularly from Chris Chiles.'
  • 'Joe Lynch, who is the Assistant Practice Manager at 33 Chancery Lane is an excellent communicator and is always happy to assist instructing solicitors, whether this is by bringing information to the urgent attention of counsel or scheduling time in counsels for a conference or court attendance.'
  • 'Excellent. Martin Adams is exceptionally experienced.'
  • 'Strongest set of chambers nationally for a POCA and asset recovery work, with a real strength in depth at the top end with a number of leading silks in this area.'
  • '33 Chancery Lane are a very impressive set and the go-to team for POCA work'

Lawyers

Leading Silks

KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.

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Martin Evans KC
‘Martin has as encyclopaedic knowledge of proceeds of crime law and practice, across both civil and criminal jurisdictions and an ability to weave the most complex of cases interlaced with novel points of law into compelling legal arguments with an ease and a delivery style which sits well with the judiciary. ’
1
Andrew Mitchell KC
 
1
Mark Rainsford KC
‘Mark is very thorough in his approach. He is able to quickly digest material and advise as to the key aspects.’
1
Kennedy Talbot KC
‘Kennedy’s reputation in respect of all matters relating to POCA is entirely deserved. He advises with a complete and justified confidence that arises from his incredible knowledge of all aspects of the law in this area.’ 
2
Graham Brodie KC
‘Graham is hugely confident and knowledgeable in this area. He is very engaging and authoritative in court.’

Leading Juniors

Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.

1
Catherine Collins
1
Fiona Jackson
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Faisal Osman
He has a wonderful ability to deal with complex POCA matters. A very good tactician who plans his moves well ahead of his opponents.’
1
Ian Smith
Ian gives quick and wise practical advice.’  
1
Barry Stancombe
Barry has an encyclopedic knowledge of POCA law and real practical experience of cases before the courts.’ 
1
Christopher Convey
2
Penelope Small
‘Penelope is an absolute star and the font of all knowledge when it comes to POCA work. She very quickly understands the key issues and presents all angles to clients in a clear, unambiguous and commercially sensitive way.’  
3
Rachel Ferrari
Rachel produces strong written advocacy and is extremely bright.'  
3
Christopher Sykes
‘Christopher is exceptionally responsive and practical, capable of delivering comprehensive advice on complex instructions even when received at short notice, providing advice that is grounded in common sense and commercial awareness.’