Financial & Banking Investigations Defence Solicitors Dublin

Do not respond, provide documents, or agree to meetings. Politely state that you must seek legal advice before responding. Call our office immediately at 01 677 9408 or emergency line at 087 122 3080.

Your first actions are critical and can significantly impact the outcome of the investigation.

The IAF, including SEAR and the Conduct Standards, makes you personally accountable for your actions and responsibilities.

Crucially, the Central Bank can now investigate and sanction you directly, even if your firm is not found to be in breach. This is a fundamental shift in personal liability.

They are lengthy processes. Simple cases may take 12-18 months. Complex investigations, especially those involving multiple parties or criminal elements, can take several years from start to finish.

Having an experienced legal team to manage this extended process is essential for protecting your interests and wellbeing.

Penalties are severe. For firms, fines can be up to €10 million or 10% of turnover. For individuals, fines can be up to €1 million.

Other penalties include public censure ("naming and shaming"), and prohibition from working in the financial services sector, effectively ending your career.

Yes. The Central Bank has a formal Administrative Sanctions Procedure that includes a settlement process.

We are expert negotiators and can manage this process on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome, including reduced penalties and protecting your reputation.

There is a high risk. The Central Bank is required to publish details of most sanctions.

One of the key goals of a settlement negotiation is to manage this publicity and protect your reputation. We provide strategic advice on managing disclosures and can coordinate with reputation management specialists.

You have the right to be informed of the nature of the interview, the right to legal representation (who must be present with you), and the privilege against self-incrimination in relation to criminal offences.

Never attend an interview without your solicitor present. We prepare you thoroughly and protect your rights throughout the process.

Yes. You have the right to appeal a contested decision by the Central Bank to the independent Irish Financial Services Appeals Tribunal (IFSAT).

IFSAT will conduct a full rehearing of the matter. We have the expertise to manage comprehensive appeals before the Tribunal and, if necessary, judicial review in the High Court.