With the Bribery Act 2010 coming into force today, Garden Court Chambers has launched a page of free legal resources to help relevant organisations comply with the Act and prevent bribery.
Bribery Act 2010 - free legal resources page
Garden Court Chambers' Fraud and Regulatory Law Team are well versed in defending serious fraud and corruption cases. But as with all areas of regulation, compliance is considerably easier and less costly than facing prosecution. And while most lawyers think that the likelihood of prosecution is low, those found guilty could face up to 10 years imprisonment and an unlimited fine.
To help organisations comply with the new law, Owen Davies QC has drafted a Template Compliance Policy, Practices and Procedures document for solicitors and other professionals to use and adapt. A free copy can be downloaded from our new Bribery Act legal resources page.
Speaking at a recent seminar on the Bribery Act, Owen urged delegates not to rush out and buy a book on the new law. "Don't go out and spend lots of money on books on the Act because there aren't any good ones yet. Instead I suggest you use the template compliance policy - which I claim no copyright over - and adapt it to your or your client's needs."
Also available on the resources page are copies of the presentations given by Owen, Marguerite Russell, and Raj Chada of Hodge Jones & Allen. These give guidance on the principles of compliance and guidance on how activities in other jurisdictions are regulated under the Act.
Should you need specific advice about compliance with the Bribery Act, or if you would like to arrange training on compliance, please contact our crime clerks on 020 7993 7600 or email crimeclerks@gclaw.co.uk.
