Investigations
Dealing with investigations into potentially anti-competitive conduct
Regulatory enforcement of non-compliance with competition law can lead to significant civil and criminal penalties, including the potential for follow-on damages claims. If you find yourself faced with the possibility of an investigation by the regulatory authorities, or want to undertake your own internal investigation into possible anti-competitive conduct, I can assist you in developing defence strategies and investigation tactics, taking account of the need to minimise business disruption, preserve confidentiality and achieve a favourable outcome, as well as supporting you through the process.
- Dawn raids
- Regulatory investigations
- Internal investigations
- Leniency applications
- Appeals
- Complaints and intervenors
How can I support you?
Dawn raids: I can help you devise procedures and train staff on how to manage dawn raids. This includes important tactics such as shadowing inspectors, maintaining records, and protecting privileged and confidential documents.
Regulatory investigations: I advise on strategies for responding to investigations and, where possible, achieving early resolution. If the investigation proceeds I liaise with the regulators, manage responses to information requests, and draft regulatory submissions. I assist with the negotiation of settlement agreements, including commitments.
Internal investigations: I work with clients to structure and manage internal investigations into potential breaches. This includes managing large scale document reviews, carrying out interviews and ensuring that privilege is maintained.
Leniency applications: I assist clients in making multi-jurisdictional leniency applications, where appropriate. I acted for the whistleblower that made the first ever full application for leniency in the UK in the flat roof contractors bid rigging cartel case.
Complaints and intervenors: I have drafted multiple complaints to UK and EU competition regulators on behalf of victims of anticompetitive conduct alleging illegal agreements and abuse of dominance.
