Untangling Proceeds of Crime & Confiscations
The laws relating to proceeds of crime and criminal property confiscation are unusual and impose serious consequences. In many cases the onus of proof is reversed and short time limits apply.
As a barrister recognised as an expert in this area, I can help you protect your clients’ property.
Practice Areas
I am recognised as an expert barrister in the areas of proceeds of crime, criminal property confiscation, financial crime and related matters.
I practice from Francis Burt Chambers in Perth, Western Australia. I regularly take matters from interstate.
Please click on the links below for more information about my practice areas, or feel free to contact me to discuss how I can assist your client.
Proceeds of Crime
I have extensive experience with all aspects of the federal Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 including restraining, exclusion, forfeiture orders, and appeals. I was previously Deputy Counsel for the AFP and a Principal Federal Prosecutor at Commonwealth DPP.
Unexplained Wealth
I act for defendants and third parties impacted by Unexplained Wealth regimes under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, Criminal Assets Recovery Act 1990 (NSW) and the Criminal Property Confiscation Act 2000 (WA) This is an emerging area. I have been briefed in about 10 of these matters.
Complex and Financial Crime
I accept briefs for prosecution and defence of charges related to the Corporations Act 2001, fraud, drug trafficking, and money laundering. I am experienced in both jury and judge-alone trials, and appeals.
Criminal Property Confiscation
I am the LexisNexis author for their annotated Criminal Property Confiscation Act 2000. I have extensive experience navigating the complexities of these laws. These include unusual procedures and powers of the WA Police, the DPP and the CCC.
Injunctions (including freezing and search orders)
I have extensive experience in obtaining injunctions including freezing orders and search orders. Injunctions are not an easy or inexpensive option, but can be effective in the right circumstances.
Anti-Money Laundering & Counter-Terrorism Financing (AMLCTF)
The AMLCTF Act is not just regulatory. I have experience in successfully defending criminal charges, responding to civil penalty proceedings, and reinstatement to the remittance sector register.