SANCTIONS

SANCTIONS: EXPERT LEGAL GUIDANCE AND DEFENCE

Sanctions are powerful tools used by governments and international bodies that aim to influence the behaviour of states, entities or specific individuals. The most common form of sanctions are economic, though immigration, trade, diplomatic and military sanctions are also being increasingly used. As a foreign policy tool, sanctions are often described as a ‘blunt instrument’ and can have many unintended consequences, affecting individuals unjustly. At Gherson, we provide expert legal advice and robust representation for those navigating the complexities of sanctions law.

WHAT ARE SANCTIONS?

Sanctions are a set of legal mechanisms that restrict certain types of activities in an effort to try to influence a state, entity or individual to change their behaviour. Common types of sanctions include:

• Asset Freezing: Preventing access to funds, property or financial services.
• Trade Restrictions: Prohibiting specific goods or services from being traded with sanctioned entities or countries.
• Travel Bans: Restricting the movement of sanctioned individuals.

Sanctions are often enforced by domestic authorities such as HM Treasury’s Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI), as well as international bodies like the United Nations (UN) and the European Union (EU).

COMMON SANCTIONS CHALLENGES

Individuals may face challenges such as:

• Being listed as a designated person (being sanctioned).
• Having assets frozen or transactions restricted.
• Navigating the complexities of trade and financial restrictions.
• Unwarranted inclusion in sanctions lists due to mistaken identity or incomplete information.

HOW GHERSON CAN HELP

Our experienced team provides tailored legal support for all aspects of sanctions law, including:

1. Challenging Sanctions Designations
   • Advising individuals unjustly targeted by sanctions.
   • Challenging sanctions designations through applications for removal or variations and, if unsuccessful, judicial review or appeals.
2. Asset Freezing Orders
   • Assisting clients with frozen accounts or assets to access essential funds.
   • Challenging the legality of asset freezes.
3. Licence Applications
   • Helping clients apply for licences from OFSI or other authorities to carry out transactions that would otherwise be prohibited.
4. Compliance Advice
   • Providing guidance on complying with sanctions regulations to avoid penalties.
   • Advising on trade, financial transactions and personal activities impacted by sanctions.
5. Representation in Investigations
   • Defending clients under investigation for alleged sanctions breaches.
   • Responding to enforcement actions by domestic or international authorities.

WHY CHOOSE GHERSON?

• Specialist Knowledge: Our team has extensive experience navigating UK and international sanctions law.
• Tailored Strategies: We provide bespoke advice to address your unique circumstances.
• Proven Track Record: We have successfully defended clients in sanctions-related investigations and proceedings in different forums.
• International Expertise: Expertise in multi-jurisdictional cases involving global sanctions frameworks.

WHEN TO SEEK LEGAL ADVICE

It is vital to seek expert legal advice as soon as you:

• Are notified of a sanctions designation or asset freeze.
• Face difficulties with trade or financial transactions due to sanctions.
• Suspect that you may be under investigation for sanctions breaches.

CONTACT US

If you are affected by sanctions or require advice on compliance, contact Gherson today. Our expert team will provide strategic guidance and robust defence to protect your rights and interests.