Our team members have often worked alongside major investigative agencies (such as the French PNF and the Department of Justice) on some of the most complex multi-jurisdictional investigations to date.  In fact, Thomas Cattee managed and issued a whole range of MLA requests when he worked at the UK’s Serious Fraud office as their lead investigative lawyer.

Mutual Legal Assistance

At the SFO he advised the prosecuting agency on the legal aspects and conducted and coordinated a range of overseas investigative steps across numerous jurisdictions whilst working corroboration with overseas prosecuting agencies.

With experience gained whilst working in a joint investigation team alongside an overseas investigating and prosecuting agency the team has unrivalled insight into investigations of global allegations of bribery and corruption.  We are therefore has well equipped with the know-how to successfully challenge these measures and to robustly ensure that the correct due process is followed in our clients’ best interest.

What is Mutual Legal Assistance?

Mutual legal assistance (MLA) is a method of cooperation between states for obtaining assistance in the investigation or prosecution of criminal offences.

The treaty by which its governed is an agreement between two or more countries for the purpose of gathering and exchanging information in an effort to enforce public or criminal laws.

The international nature of many criminal investigations has seen a rise in these kinds of requests, and they are now a common feature in many multi-jurisdictional criminal and regulatory investigations.

Indeed, a request for mutual legal assistance could come prior to a country issuing a formal extradition request and as such it is therefore advised to be well prepared and represented by expert lawyers.

For more information about us and our Extradition, Mutual Legal Assistance and Interpol services, please contact a member of the team who can answer any questions and guide you through the process.