Andrew Smith quoted in the press as the SFO announces major policy change

Managing partner Andrew Smith has been quoted in the press as the Serious Fraud Office (UK) (SFO) announces a major policy change.

Companies that self-report suspected financial crime can now expect to be invited to negotiate Deferred Prosecution Agreements (DPAs).

Andrew queries whether the new guidance will make self-reporting more attractive to companies. Compared to a DPA, a guilty plea can prevent a case dragging on for years, reduce the scope of alleged criminality and result in smaller financial exposure overall, he adds.

You can read the articles in full in The Guardian, Law360 UK, The Times, GIR and ICLG.