Expert POCA Solicitors in Leeds, Yorkshire & Beyond

If you are facing a financial investigation or proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA), obtaining specialist legal advice as early as possible is essential.

POCA investigations can have serious consequences, including frozen bank accounts, restrained assets, confiscation proceedings and civil recovery action. They are often complex, intrusive and highly stressful for both individuals and businesses, with the potential to affect not only your finances, but also your reputation, family and future.

At Ison Harrison Solicitors, our specialist POCA team provides strategic advice and robust representation to individuals, company directors and businesses facing investigations by agencies such as the National Crime Agency (NCA), HMRC, the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) and the police. We act quickly to protect your rights, challenge the actions taken against you and guide you through every stage of the process with clear, practical advice.

How We Can Help

The Proceeds of Crime Act gives investigators extensive powers to trace, freeze and recover assets believed to be linked to criminal conduct. These powers are wide-ranging, and cases often involve detailed financial investigations spanning several years.

Our experienced solicitors understand the legal, financial and practical challenges these proceedings create. Whether you are under investigation, responding to court proceedings or seeking to protect assets as a third party, we provide tailored advice designed to achieve the best possible outcome while protecting your financial interests.

Our POCA Services

Confiscation Proceedings

Following convictions for offences such as fraud, money laundering or drug offences, the court may seek to recover the alleged benefit of criminal conduct through confiscation proceedings.

Our team can:

  • Challenge prosecution benefit calculations
  • Review financial evidence and statements
  • Dispute assumptions about criminal benefit
  • Advise on available assets and hidden asset allegations
  • Apply for additional time to pay or variations of confiscation orders
  • Negotiate appropriate settlements where possible

Third Party Interest Applications

POCA proceedings can affect spouses, family members, business partners and others with legitimate interests in restrained assets.

We help third parties protect their legal interests through carefully prepared applications, ensuring homes, savings and business assets receive proper consideration by the court.

Section 22 & Section 23 Applications

Confiscation Orders can be revisited years after they were made if new assets are identified, while genuine changes in financial circumstances may justify reducing the amount payable.

Our solicitors advise on:

Account Freezing Orders (AFOs)

Account Freezing Orders can prevent access to personal or business funds without warning.

We act quickly to:

  • Challenge freezing orders
  • Apply for access to essential living or business expenses
  • Defend forfeiture proceedings
  • Negotiate with investigating authorities

Unexplained Wealth Orders (UWOs)

Unexplained Wealth Orders require individuals to explain how significant assets were acquired and are often accompanied by Interim Freezing Orders.

Our team provides strategic advice, prepares comprehensive evidence and works with forensic experts where necessary to protect your position and respond effectively to the High Court.

Why Early Legal Advice Matters

POCA cases move quickly, and decisions made in the early stages can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. Whether your assets have been frozen, you have received notice of confiscation proceedings or you believe you may become the subject of an investigation, obtaining specialist legal advice at the earliest opportunity can make a substantial difference.

Early intervention allows us to preserve evidence, engage with investigators where appropriate, challenge unnecessary restrictions and develop a clear legal strategy before matters escalate. Acting promptly can often reduce disruption to your personal life or business and place you in the strongest possible position throughout the proceedings.

Why Choose Ison Harrison?

Our dedicated POCA team combines specialist criminal defence expertise with detailed financial analysis to provide practical, strategic advice throughout complex proceedings.

We offer:

  • Specialist POCA expertise
  • Rapid action in urgent cases
  • Clear, practical advice without unnecessary legal jargon
  • Representation throughout England and Wales
  • Sensitive, confidential support during what can be an extremely stressful process

We understand that POCA proceedings are about far more than financial investigations. They can affect your home, livelihood, business and reputation. Our priority is to protect your interests while guiding you through what can often be a complex and intimidating legal process with confidence and clarity.

Speak to a POCA Specialist Today

If you are facing confiscation proceedings, an Account Freezing Order, an Unexplained Wealth Order or any other POCA investigation, early legal advice can make a significant difference.

Contact Ison Harrison Solicitors today for confidential, no-obligation advice from our specialist POCA team. We’ll explain your options, protect your position and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

Call 0113 224 7825 or email poca@isonharrison.co.uk for expert advice.