LEXLAW Solicitors & Barristers
We successfully annulled a bankruptcy order against our client after HMRC failed to properly serve notice of a key hearing. Mr. Gaster proved this procedural error denied him the chance to present evidence of his ability to pay. The court’s judgment emphasized due process under Rule 10.23 of the Insolvency Rules 2016, exposing flaws in HMRC’s conduct and evidence on the adjournment notice.
An Account Freezing Order (AFO) is a UK court order that restricts access to funds in bank accounts suspected of involvement in criminal activity. Certain organisations such as the NCA, SFO or HMRC must show reasonable suspicion that the money is linked to criminal activity. They can apply for an AFO at a Magistrates’ Court. These orders, lasting up to two years, freeze the account, preventing any transactions without court approval. To protect their legal rights and assets, businesses and individuals facing an AFO can challenge or seek variation through legal representation.
In Supreme Court case of Candey Ltd v Crumpler and another (as Joint Liquidators of Peak Hotels and Resorts Ltd (In Liquidation))[2022] UKSC 35 the question in issue was that under what circumstances will solicitors have waived (or be inferred to have waived) their equitable lien when a solicitor enters into a security arrangement with a client?
If you have been charged a very high fee by a solicitor you are able to challenge the fairness and reasonableness utilising the Solicitors Act 1974. However delay in taking action could reduce or eliminate prospects of recovery. If the sum involved is high value, we and counsel could (after a paid review) act on a no win no fee basis where we are only paid if we succeed.