Macfarlanes LLP’s white collar crime practice is noted for its comprehensive expertise across all key areas of financial crime, representing senior executives, politically exposed persons, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals involved in criminal and regulatory investigations, prosecutions, and extradition proceedings. The team acts on both domestic and international matters, with a reputation for handling complex, high-profile cases. Co-heads Lorna Emson and Brian Spiro bring deep experience to the practice; Emson is a trusted adviser to HNW individuals and politicians, while Spiro draws on over three decades advising on corporate crime. Helen Harvey offers standout expertise in HMRC investigations and financial sanctions, and James Popperwell is a key name to note.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Strong multi-disciplinary firm with a fraud team that allows private clients access to white collar advice and issues arising from other sectors of their life. International law firm with relevant knowledge of international regulators, the SEC, DOJ and in Europe. Strong sanctions team.’
‘Helen Harvey is going to be a star, she is supportive to clients, compassionate and very able with excellent judgement.'
'Lorna Emson is a technically brilliant lawyer.’
‘Market leader for complex and multi-jurisdictional work.’
‘Macfarlanes LLP are a powerhouse when it comes to white collar crime. What makes them unique is their ability to consistently keep ahead of legal developments in the market. They have found a niche in advising high net worth families in relation to all aspects of corporate crime and are very forward-thinking when it comes to business development.'
‘Lorna Emson is a standout partner to me. She has grown her team and consistently developed their skill, expertise and client base. She is fantastic to work with, approachable, straightforward and a class act.'
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Lorna Emson; Brian Spiro
Other key lawyers
Helen Harvey; James Popperwell