Diversion Fraud Defence

If allegations have been made against you or your company relating to diversion fraud, JMW can provide the specialist representation you need. We are vastly experienced in helping people successfully defend against such serious and damaging accusations.

We have extensive knowledge of the law on diversion fraud and a track record of success in defending individuals accused of related offences.

To speak to a solicitor, get in touch with us by calling 0345 872 6666 or by filling in our online enquiry form.

Our Services

Diversion fraud is often referred to as outward or inward excise fraud, and it involves the illegal diversion of goods into the UK when they are destined for elsewhere. In some cases of diversion fraud, a number of people in the chain of goods are involved in the scam, but in others, people and businesses can inadvertently be drawn into fraudulent activity. We are able to assist in cases of both types of diversion fraud. 

Outward Diversion Fraud

In cases of diversion fraud, goods supposed to be heading to UK warehouses for onward export into the European Union are unlawfully diverted into the UK market. Goods involved in this kind of fraud will be being moved under duty suspension and fraud can involve any combination of:

• Warehouse operatives
• Hauliers
• Vendors
• Distributors

Fraud of this type always has one key aspect: the falsification of the Accompanying Administrative Document (AAD), which is sent alongside goods and guarantees the duty involved. As well as this, the consignment note - often referred to as the Convention Merchandises Routiers or CMR - is forged, and will fraudulently confirm that goods have reached their destination.

Inward Diversion Fraud

Inward diversion fraud is when duty suspended goods are imported from a warehouse in the EU and are supposedly bound for a warehouse in the UK. If the consignment is checked en-route, the goods are only able to reach the warehouse if they are specified in documents in accordance with the AAD.

If this does not happen, the goods are diverted to the UK market even though the excise payment has not been made. A false warehouse stamp is then applied to the goods to make it appear as though they have been delivered in accordance with the law.

Why Choose JMW?

We pride ourselves on our extensive experience and knowledge here at JMW. We have worked on many cases of both inward and outward diversion fraud, some involving very large numbers of defendants and witnesses and many involving months of court litigation.

Our serious diversion fraud solicitors in Manchester represent people from around the UK and will be able to offer advice both on where to go next and the best course of action to bring your case to a successful conclusion.

We will support the support you need throughout your case, allowing you to get on with the important business of running your company.