Accused of environmental offences? Protect your business with expert defence.
If you, either personally or on behalf of your business, are accused of environmental offences, you may feel like you could lose everything you have worked for. Environmental violations are technical and can result in huge financial penalties or even imprisonment if you are convicted.
Environmental offences are strict liability and prosecuted in a seemingly vindictive manner by the regulators.
Our specialist solicitors are here to support and guide you. We will fight tirelessly to protect you and your business.
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Environmental breaches are serious and can have devastating effects
Being accused of an environmental offence will affect you financially as well as emotionally. Having an organisation who knows nothing about your work wade in with a clipboard will no doubt leave you feeling distraught. You, your staff, your management and your clients are immediately undermined by someone who knows nothing about your business but who often think they are helping the greater good.
These people can shut down your business down just like that. They have large budgets and vast resources and can make you feel insignificant. You could receive a remedial notice in the first instance or a temporary prohibition that can turn permanent with apparently not much judicial oversight. Once you are given a temporary injunction, you will no doubt be feeling completely lost.
Your biggest fear is probably the penalties you are facing and how you can get back to trading safely.
Technical regulations can make the process challenging to follow
The reputational damage that can follow such measures can have long lasting effects on your career, business and personal life. It is easy to feel like you could not possibly compete. The effect on you personally, your family and your relationship with clients are all put at risk.
Investigators do not understand the difference between a minor breach and something which involves fault beyond your control, or something that’s not as serious. As a result, you, as an expert in your own field, are left feeling undermined and out of the loop.
It's intimidating having to deal with governmental agencies who seemingly have bottomless pockets and endless resources. You may be a small business and feel like you're losing control of everything you have worked for.
With the right representation, there is hope for you and your business
If you are facing these allegations, it is crucial to understand that there is hope. Early intervention by an experienced legal team significantly improves your chances of a positive outcome.
A good lawyer will excel in building a strong defence by challenging the evidence and using expert witnesses to provide alternative explanations. They will step in, see what the situation is, gather information and work on a solution to make you feel at ease.
The key is having the right representation early on, which allows you to control the narrative and influence the direction of your case.
Positive outcomes are possible and within reach
With the introduction of stricter environmental laws and an increased focus on corporate responsibility, the stakes in environmental cases have never been higher. Our track record proves that we know what we're doing.
Defending against these cases involves technical knowledge, often requiring the expertise of environmental consultants and other expert witnesses. In many cases, the prosecution's evidence is built on environmental data which can be challenging to interpret without specialised knowledge. We work closely with expert witnesses to challenge this data.
Our detailed case preparation combined with our commitment can result in reduced penalties or even complete exoneration for you and your business. We can mitigate the reputational impact on you by working with experts to protect your professional and personal future.
With our guidance, many clients have emerged from these accusations with their reputations intact and lives back on track.
You should take immediate action to protect yourself and your business
If you are being investigated or have been accused of an environmental offence, it is essential to take proactive steps to protect yourself. Here’s what you should and should not do:
Do seek legal advice from specialist environmental solicitors immediately.
Do gather and secure all documentation and permits related to your waste management practices.
Do call us to discuss your case.
Don’t engage in discussions with regulatory bodies or the media without legal representation.
Don’t attempt to rectify or conceal any breaches before consulting with your solicitor.
Don’t delay seeking advice – early intervention is critical to achieving a favourable outcome.
No-tricks fixed-fee pricing
We can usually offer a fixed fee instalment plan so you can plan for the expense, and so you can fund your case in stages while it is continuing.
Private representation
Once we have an idea of what kind of case you are facing and what work that will be necessary, we will then be able to provide you with a fixed fee quote. This means that you know before you commit how much your case will cost.
What's included?
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if the Environmental Agency or Health and Safety Executive contact me about an environmental offence?
If any professional body contacts you regarding a potential environmental offence or breach, it is crucial that you seek legal advice immediately. Despite what they might say, anything you say can be used against you either now or at a later stage so it's crucial that you take legal advice immediately.
What if my business is under investigation for an environmental offence? Can I keep working whilst they investigate?
If it is your business that is being investigated, someone will be appointed to speak on the company's behalf, including attending any interview with the investigating body. This is likely to be a company director or senior member of management.
An allegation, whether criminal or civil, is also regulatory. Penalties and prohibitions can begin from the outset. You can negotiate a solution and argue to have a temporary prohibition lifted without going to court, to ensure you can get trading safely again.
What are the possible sentences for committing environmental offences?
There are a lot of factors to be taken into account before any punishment or sanction is imposed on an individual or their business. Such outcomes can include:
In the most serious cases, company directors can go to prison but this is a last resort for everyone involved.
Unlimited fines are also available to the prosecution, depending on the level of offence committed.
The director may be disqualified.
Confiscation of costs under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
Send us a confidential message
We'll get back to you as soon as possible. We are happy to speak to you if you have a query, and either have a free consultation on the phone or in person if necessary.