From Search to Seizure - Investigatory Powers in Financial Crime Explained for Accountants

Introduction

When allegations of fraud, tax evasion, or money laundering arise, investigators need to act quickly and decisively to secure evidence. Agencies such as the police, HMRC, the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) and the National Crime Agency (NCA) all have statutory powers that allow them to search premises, seize assets, and question suspects.

For accountants, finance professionals and business advisers, understanding these powers is essential. Whether advising clients under investigation or safeguarding your own organisation, knowing what investigators can and cannot do helps you navigate complex situations with confidence.

This webinar provides a practical overview of the investigatory powers available to UK authorities in financial crime cases. It is specifically designed for accountants and non-legal professionals who may be first in line when clients are subject to scrutiny.

What You Will Learn

This webinar will cover the following:

• Entry and Search of Premises
• What powers do investigators have to enter private homes, offices or business premises?
• When is a search warrant required, and what are the limits of its use?
• Search and Seizure
• Under what circumstances can a person, vehicle or property be searched?
• Can property be seized without the owner’s consent, and what safeguards exist?
• Arrest and Detention
• What conditions must be satisfied before an arrest can be made?
• How long can a suspect be detained without charge, and what extensions are possible?
• What rights does a suspect have at the police station, including access to legal advice?
• Accessing Financial and Digital Evidence
• Investigators’ powers to obtain bank account information and digital data
• Seizure of samples such as DNA, fingerprints or other biometric evidence
• Freezing and Seizing Assets
• Seizure of cash, cash equivalents and cryptocurrencies
• Can a suspect be restricted from using assets during an ongoing investigation
• Bail and Charging Decisions
• The role of police bail and what conditions may be imposed
• Who decides if a suspect should be formally charged with an offence?
• The immediate and long-term consequences of being charged for the individual or business

This pre-recorded webinar will be available to view from Tuesday 17th March 2026

Alternatively, you can gain access to this webinar and 1,900+ others via the MBL Webinar Subscription. Please email webinarsubscription@mblseminars.com for more details.