Skip to content

Fraud and White Collar Crime

Bounce Back Loan Fraud

Our team of criminal defence lawyers are experts at handling criminal investigations where businesses and individuals have been accused of Bounce Back Loan fraud.

Whether mistakes were made deliberately or in error, our criminal defence lawyers can help with bounce back loan fraud allegations when a business or individual has been accused of the following:

  • Exaggeration of legitimate claims
  • Impersonation of legitimate businesses or individuals
  • Fraudulently adopting a company established before 1 March 2020 scheme cut off
  • Use of ‘money mules’ to take out loans, who then immediately file for bankruptcy
  • Making multiple applications across a number of different lenders

We understand that being the subject of a criminal investigation during these unprecedented times can cause tremendous strain. Our criminal defence solicitors are committed to minimising the impact of any investigation whilst protecting the privacy of our clients.

Frequently asked questions
What is Bounce Back Loan fraud?

The Cabinet Office has identified two types of fraud but has not specified which will be prosecuted.

  • ‘Soft’ fraud – described by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) as borrowers who exaggerate ‘otherwise legitimate claims, such as overstating turnover in order to receive a larger loan’.
  • ‘Hard’ fraud – the deliberate deceit of the scheme by criminal organisations or others, on a much larger scale. 
What are the penalties for Bounce Back Loan fraud?

If court proceedings arise, these may take between 6 and 12 months to be heard in the Crown Court. The above offences attract a range of sentences and orders including:

  • Fines 
  • Imprisonment
  • Compensation and confiscation orders
  • Director’s disqualification
  • Serious Crime Prevent Orders (SCPO)

In certain circumstances, civil recovery orders, civil settlements or civil penalties may also be sought.  

Contact

To get in touch with our criminal defence lawyers please use the details below. If you need emergency assistance outside of office hours please call our out of hours phone number.

EMERGENCY – OUT OF HOURS

+44 (0)20 7305 5638

Meet the team

Tayab Ali
Deputy Managing Partner

Crime, Fraud and Regulatory | Head of International Law

Kate Goold
Partner

Crime, Fraud and Regulatory

Katie Wheatley
Partner

Head of Crime, Fraud and Regulatory

Hester Cavaciuti
Associate

Crime, Fraud and Regulatory

Catherine Jackson
Associate

Crime, Fraud and Regulatory

Jude Lanchin
Associate

Crime, Fraud and Regulatory

Ella Jefferson
Consultant

Crime, Fraud and Regulatory

Lodovica Degan
Solicitor

Crime, Fraud and Regulatory

Nicholas Jennaway
Solicitor

Crime, Fraud and Regulatory

Ruaa Kamaran
Solicitor

Crime, Fraud and Regulatory

Jessie Slim
Solicitor

Public Law

How can we help you?

We are here to help. If you have any questions for us, please get in touch below.