David Corker comments on the potential new director of the SFO in Legal Week

With chief operating officer Mark Thompson installed as interim director of the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), a new name has emerged as a potential successor to David Green QC, who stepped down after six years at the watchdog’s helm last week.

Three City white collar partners with links to the SFO, including one former SFO lawyer, have suggested that Lisa Osofsky – EMEA leader and head of investigations at regulatory compliance company Exiger and former deputy GC at the FBI – could be in line for the role.

Corker Binning founding partner David Corker, who has acted for many clients being investigated or prosecuted by the SFO, said: “I think the SFO remains in jeopardy, and I think this appointment would be an indication of its jeopardy.

“Her background signifies to me that she comes from a largely US enforcement background, so she will be steeped in the tradition of client/lawyer privilege. David Green was a sceptic of that, as can be seen by ongoing cases. I would imagine that she will also be very IT-savvy when it comes to saving resources.”

Read the full article in Legal Week here.