Condemnation & Cash Forfeiture
Becket Chambers represents individuals, businesses, the Border Force and HMRC in matters of condemnation and cash forfeiture, and cash or goods seized under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
Becket Chambers’ Civil team members have extensive experience of advising and representing individuals and business in all aspects of civil proceedings relating to condemnation and cash forfeiture. We can also advise and represent you where cash or goods have been seized under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
Our expertise covers cash seizure and forfeiture proceedings and/or condemnation cases involving excise goods (tobacco and/or alcohol) arising from interceptions at Dover or the Channel Tunnel. Many of our cases have involved foreign nationals, so we are experienced in working with clients where the additional services of an interpreter are required.
As well as acting for defendants in these cases, we also act for the Border Force and HMRC, so we have in-depth knowledge and experience of how these authorities operate. We can provide oral and written advice regarding your situation and the prospective outcome of your case, as well as representing you in court. Many of our barristers have experience of working with clients who need the additional help of an interpreter.
Condemnation proceedings are a civil matter and will wait until any associated criminal proceedings are completed. So challenging a seizure can take several months.
Our barristers can help in cases relating to:
- Condemnation cases involving excise goods (tobacco and/or alcohol) and/or vehicles that have been intercepted and seized by the HMRC or the Border Force
- Cash forfeiture (where cash in your possession has been deemed to be the proceeds of criminal activity, for the purposes of crime, or related to money laundering)
If your cash, goods and/or vehicles have been seized by HM Revenue and Customers (HMRC) or the Border Force under the Excise Management Act 1979, your legal representation is usually at your own expense and isn’t eligible for Legal Aid.
Condemnation and Cash Forfeiture Barristers
Our Civil Law barristers have expertise in acting for defendants and the Border Force and HMRC in proceedings relating seized cash or goods, including under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
