Unexplained Wealth Orders

Unexplained Wealth Orders are orders of the High Court. They give law enforcement agencies the power to seize assets that may have been acquired illegally. Unexplained Wealth Orders give permission to investigate the source of assets valued at more than £50,000. 

They’re only ordered when there are reasonable grounds to suspect the assets were purchased illegitimately. An Unexplained Wealth Order is usually ordered when a serious crime is suspected, such as money laundering or fraud. Unexplained Wealth Orders can be sought by several law enforcement agencies, including:

• HMRC
• National Crime Agency
• Serious Fraud Office
• Crown Prosecution Service
• Financial Conduct Authority.

If an Unexplained Wealth Order is granted, it’s your responsibility to prove the legitimacy of your assets. If you can’t do this, it could result in:

• Your asset being presumed “recoverable property” with steps being taken to confiscate it
• An interim freezing order to stop you from getting rid of your assets
• A criminal investigation to find out more about your ownership of the assets.

Our unexplained wealth order solicitors help both individuals and corporations suspected of involvement in a serious crime, such as fraud or money laundering. We work thoroughly but discretely, ensuring your reputation is protected.

We can give you advice on any of the following issues around an Unexplained Wealth Order:

• Taking preventative measures if you feel you may be at risk of investigation
• Considering whether the order was lawful and if you could challenge it
• Strategic advice and preparation in responding to an order to provide a legitimate explanation
• Multi-jurisdiction approach if needed. Worldwide coordination of evidence to prove your asset was obtained legitimately
• Handling/resisting interim orders, such as freezing orders.