Corporate Crime & Investigations
When an investigation reaches your door.
Meticulous representation for corporations and individuals facing ICAC, ASIC and other serious white collar investigations.
An investigation can threaten liberty, livelihood and reputation all at once. We work closely with clients from the first contact with an investigator, giving strategic advice, negotiating resolutions and defending enforcement action where needed.
Our principals have represented government ministers, executives and corporations in private and public ICAC hearings, and defended ASIC prosecutions for insider trading and money laundering. We also advise clients who want guidance before any investigation begins.
What we do
ICAC inquiries
Representation at private and public hearings.
ASIC investigations
Examinations, notices and enforcement proceedings.
Insider trading
Defence of market misconduct allegations.
Money laundering and proceeds of crime
Defence and restraint proceedings.
Compliance breaches
Internal investigations and regulator engagement.
Reputation during investigation
Managing media coverage while a matter is on foot.
Selected matters
Investigations and prosecutions.
Matters our principals have acted in, including in prior roles. Many of our clients value privacy, so most of our work is never reported.
- Mark O'Brien
ICAC private and public hearings
Represented government ministers, executives and corporations.
- Mark O'Brien
ASIC prosecutions
Defended white collar defendants charged with insider trading and money laundering.
- Steven Lewis
Meta Platforms, Inc.
Had Meta committed for trial over alleged Criminal Code breaches arising from scam cryptocurrency advertisements on Facebook.
- Steven Lewis
Canadian trading firm v ASIC
Acted for the firm and its director in an injurious falsehood and defamation claim against the regulator.
FAQs
Common questions.
General information only. Every matter turns on its facts, so speak with us about yours.
Do I need a lawyer for an ICAC hearing?
Get advice as soon as you receive a summons or notice. Witnesses can apply to be legally represented at ICAC examinations and public inquiries, and the evidence you give can have lasting consequences for your career and reputation.
Can I refuse to answer questions at an ASIC examination?
Generally no. You must answer, but if you first claim that an answer may tend to incriminate you, that answer cannot generally be used against you in later criminal or penalty proceedings. You are entitled to have a lawyer present.
Do you act for companies or individuals?
Both. We act for corporations and for individual directors, executives and employees, and advise early on where their interests may diverge.
Confidential consultation
Speak with a principal today.
Everything you tell us is confidential. If a publication is imminent, call us directly so we can act before it runs.
- Urgent
- 02 9216 9827 · 24/7
- Overseas
- +61 2 9216 9827
- Office
- Level 10, 16-18 O'Connell Street
Sydney NSW 2000