An ABC Guide to Confiscation Proceedings pursuant to POCA 2002

Introduction

Designed for practising criminal litigators and advocates instructed for both prosecution and defence, this introductory virtual classroom seminar assumes no prior knowledge of POCA Confiscation and seeks to explain when such orders can be sought and how they operate.

Confiscation, so often seen as an afterthought at sentence, can often be the most important aspect of a criminal prosecution. With the March 2026 changes to the ambit of Suspended Sentence, the likelihood of immediate custody is lowering for many Defendants. However, for those subject to POCA proceedings, a sentence does not end at securing their liberty. Confiscation threatens a Defendant’s savings, their possessions and their family home, and frequently goes far beyond what was on the Indictment. Equally for the prosecutor seeking to recompense victims, or to deter future offenders, the tools offered by Confiscation proceedings are invaluable.

With the experience of 15 years specialising in POCA proceedings, Andy Evans has conducted hundreds of Crown Court Confiscations and can explain to you the mysteries and tactical approach to these highly impactive orders.

What You Will Learn

This live and interactive course will cover the following:

• The relationship between conviction and POCA proceedings
• The operation of a ‘POCA timetable’
• Procedure and tactics for final hearing
• Lifestyle / reverse burden cases
• Calculating Benefit Figure and Available Amount
• Determining Recoverable Amount
• The operation of Time to Pay and Time in Default
• Introductions to POCA Revisits, Tainted Gifts and Hidden Assets

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.