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News & Insights

  • Sundeep Soor and Ben Cooper KC Overturn Unlawful Search Warrant in Extradition Case
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  • Suspended Sentence & Reduced POCA Confiscation Order in £1M Trading Standards Case
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  • ‘The Legal 500’ – Sundeep Soor Receives Continued Recognition In The 2025 Edition Of The Directory
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  • ‘The Legal 500’ – Sundeep Soor receives continued recognition in the 2023 edition of the directory
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  • Successful Legal Challenge: Construction Company Reclaims Frozen Bank Account
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  • Solicitor Sundeep Soor and Counsel Nick Robinson Secure Dismissal in High-Stakes Money Laundering Case
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Defence Lawyer - Financial & Serious Crime/POCA/Business Regulatory/Extradition
Some cases stay with you because of the scale and Some cases stay with you because of the scale and complexity involved. One that stands out is the £250m HBOS bank bribery & corruption case - a trial that lasted almost six months following three to four years of preparation. It was a demanding case in every sense, made even more challenging when the barrister strike over legal aid cuts took place part way through proceedings. Cases like this highlight the level of preparation, resilience and adaptability required in serious financial crime work.
Extradition is where one country asks for a person Extradition is where one country asks for a person to be returned to its jurisdiction, usually to face trial or serve a sentence. In the UK, this is governed by the Extradition Act 2003, and in some cases involves international frameworks such as the UK-Europe Extradition (TCA) If someone is facing extradition, it doesn't automatically mean they will be sent abroad. There are legal arguments (bars to extradition ) that can be raised - for example, whether extradition would be disproportionate, or whether it would breach that person's human rights. There is also an appeal process, depending on the circumstances. I've worked on a range of extradition cases. At the moment, I'm representing an individual wanted by the USA in connection with an alleged pharmaceutical fraud of around $9 million, where we are advancing a number of human rights arguments. In another case involving Sweden, we worked closely with lawyers in that jurisdiction and law enforcement to negotiate a voluntary surrender. The client returned on agreed terms, was interviewed, and released the following day - bringing the matter to a close. Extradition cases are often complex and involve multiple jurisdictions, but with the right approach, there can be more options than people initially realise.
‘Sundeep helped my partner with a serious criminal ‘Sundeep helped my partner with a serious criminal allegation. He was very supportive during an extremely challenging time. Sundeep is an excellent lawyer his advice was perfect, the strategy adopted resulted in no further action and the end of a turbulent time for me and my family. I would definitely recommend Sundeep to anyone looking for a lawyer.’ I'm grateful for feedback like this. Much of the work I do involves managing complex, fast-moving situations where there are often multiple issues to deal with at once. Staying focused, organised, and responsive is essential. It's important to me that clients feel supported and confident that their case is being handled carefully at every stage.
What triggers a Trading Standards investigation? What triggers a Trading Standards investigation? In many cases, it starts with a complaint. Consumers may raise concerns with their local Trading Standards department, which can then lead to an investigation into how a business operates and possible consumer protection breaches. From there, things can escalate. Businesses or individuals may be invited to attend an interview under caution, and in many cases, searches or raids can take place and sometimes bank accounts and assets frozen. It's important to know that an investigation doesn't automatically mean court proceedings. In the right circumstances, representations can be made to the local authority, asking them to consider alternatives to prosecution in line with their enforcement policy. If you're contacted by Trading Standards, getting advice early can help you understand your position and how best to respond. #tradingstandards #investigation #defencelawyer
I recently represented one of three defendants in I recently represented one of three defendants in a trial at Manchester Crown Court involving allegations of money laundering totalling approximately £600,000. The case was linked to the alleged illegal sale of steroids and involved a number of complex issues. These included cross-jurisdictional elements, particularly in establishing the legitimate source of funds. It also required detailed legal arguments around the hawala banking system - an informal, trust based method of transferring  money that is widely used in some parts of the world. Cases like this highlight how complex financial crime allegations can be, especially where international elements and alternative banking systems are involved. Careful analysis and a clear strategy are essential throughout.
1st May 2026 marks 25 years since I qualified as a 1st May 2026 marks 25 years since I qualified as a solicitor. It's a milestone that's given me time to reflect on the journey so far. Over the years, I've specialised in an area of law that has constantly evolved and when I think about the last 25 years, one case in particular stood out and that was the £250m HBOS bribery trial, which lasted almost six months and required years of preparation beforehand. It was a challenging case in many ways, not least because it was affected by the barristers' strike at the time. But beyond the scale of any one case, what stays with me most is the impact on clients. Securing acquittals will always be important. But so too is the work that happens behind the scenes - reducing sentences, avoiding prison where possible, and helping people keep their homes and livelihoods. In many cases, it's about limiting the damage and helping clients move forward, often back to their families. That's the part of the job that continues to matter most.
What types of POCA cases do I deal with? POCA ma What types of POCA cases do I deal with? POCA matters can arise in both criminal and civil contexts and they often have a significant impact on people's finances and day-to-day lives. On the criminal side, I deal with restraint orders, which freeze assets - including bank accounts, property and funds held in the UK or even worldwide. Where appropriate, I can apply to vary or discharge those orders so clients can access money for basic living expenses. I also advise on confiscation proceedings following a conviction, which can be complex and high stakes. In addition, I represent third parties - such as family members who need to assert a legitimate financial interest in assets linked to a defendant. On the civil side, I deal with Bank Account Freezing Orders, as well as cash and asset seizures. These cases can arise without a criminal charge, but still result in individuals or businesses being unable to access or use their money. In both situations, the impact can be immediate and serious. Early, specialist advice can make a real difference in how these matters are handled and resolved.
Most people don't pick up the phone to a defence s Most people don't pick up the phone to a defence solicitor when they’re having a good day. More often than not, they're calling in a panic - unsure of what's happening, worried about what comes next and looking for information. My first step is always to slow things down and listen. To understand the situation properly. Once I have the full picture, I can explain where they stand and what the options are. From there, it's about putting a clear plan in place and guiding them through it. Panic is completely normal - but with the right advice, things can quickly start to feel more manageable.
I recently acted for two clients in separate POCA I recently acted for two clients in separate POCA matters as third parties. Both were at risk of losing 50% of the equity in their homes - around £150,000 each - despite not being the defendants in the case. Following detailed preparation and careful representation, I was able to persuade the prosecution to withdraw their claims. As a result, the properties were removed from the defendants' confiscation orders. Cases like this highlight an important point - POCA doesn't just affect defendants. Innocent third parties, including family members, can be drawn into proceedings and face very real financial consequences. Getting specialist advice early can make a significant difference in protecting your position.
“Sundeep was always available to answer questions, “Sundeep was always available to answer questions, help, hold the space when tough conversations were needed and executed perfectly to achieve a positive outcome. Grateful to Sundeep and the team.” Reviews like this mean a great deal to me. When someone is facing an investigation or court proceedings, it's often one of the most difficult periods in their life. Being available, providing clear guidance, and supporting clients through those challenging conversations is an important part of the job. I'm grateful for the trust clients place in me and the opportunity to help guide them through the process.
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