This paper is part of a targeted consultation, which is being conducted simultaneously in England and Wales. It invites comments on a range of proposals to design mechanisms to permit respondents whose assets have been frozen under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, and any secondary legislation made under that Act, to access those assets to pay for reasonable legal expenses for their defence. The consultation will be split into two parts of which this is the first.

Please click here to view the Consultation Document.

How to Respond

The closing date for responses to this consultation scheme Consultation Paper on the release of assets in civil recovery proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 has now closed. The scheme is due for implementation in October 2005.