Counterfeit Currency Defence Solicitors
Specialist Criminal Defence Solicitors, Barristers and Legal Team at representing clients accused or charged with using or creating Counterfeit Currency
Criminal Offence Services
Allegations involving counterfeit currency are treated extremely seriously under English law and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment. If you are under investigation or have been charged with offences related to counterfeit currency, it is crucial to seek immediate legal representation. At Kang & Co Solicitors, we provide expert legal advice and robust defence services for individuals facing allegations under Section 15 of the Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981.
Our experienced team of specialist criminal defence solicitors, barristers, and legal advisors are dedicated to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. We understand the impact these allegations can have on your personal and professional life and offer comprehensive legal support throughout every stage of the process.
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Chambers Top Ranked Law Firm
Our law firm is ranked amongst the top tier of law firms in the United Kingdom in the category of Crime (which includes Driving Offences) by the prestigious Chambers and Partners law guide.
Legal 500 Leading Firm
The Legal 500 guide describes Kang & Co Solicitors as being “well adept at tailoring its resources to an individual case and investing heavily for the client. Legal advice is honest and the team always takes into consideration the views of the client.”
What is the Offence of Counterfeit Currency?
The offence of counterfeit currency is primarily governed by Section 15 of the Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981. This legislation makes it a criminal offence to make, use, or possess counterfeit currency or counterfeit banknotes with the intent to pass them off as genuine. The key elements of the offence include:
- Making Counterfeit Currency: Producing fake notes or coins intended to resemble genuine currency.
- Possessing Counterfeit Currency: Having counterfeit notes or coins in your possession with the intent to use or distribute them.
- Passing Counterfeit Currency: Attempting to use or circulate counterfeit currency as if it were genuine.
The prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt that you knowingly possessed or used counterfeit currency with intent to deceive or defraud.
AGREED FEE
CRIMINAL LAWYERS
Our Agreed Fees for Private Crime cases start from;
£3,000 + VAT
Sentencing for Counterfeit Currency Offences
The sentencing for offences involving counterfeit currency is determined by the Sentencing Council guidelines and depends on various factors including the nature of the offence, the scale of the operation, and any previous convictions. The offence is triable either way, meaning it can be heard in either the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court.
- Magistrates’ Court: Less serious cases may be heard in the Magistrates’ Court where the maximum custodial sentence is six months per offence (or up to 12 months for multiple offences).
- Crown Court: More serious cases involving larger quantities of counterfeit currency, organised operations, or repeat offenders are heard in the Crown Court. The maximum sentence for this offence in the Crown Court is up to 10 years’ imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.
Aggravating factors that may increase the severity of the sentence include:
- High-value counterfeit operations;
- Involvement in organised criminal activity;
- Previous convictions for similar offences;
- Exploitation of vulnerable individuals.
Mitigating factors that can reduce sentencing may include:
- Early guilty plea;
- Limited involvement or minor role;
- Demonstrated remorse and cooperation with the investigation.
The court will also consider whether a compensation order or confiscation order should be imposed under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
Why Choose Kang & Co Solicitors?
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National Legal Representation
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No Obligation Initial Telephone Assessment
Legal Defences for Counterfeit Currency Offences
At Kang & Co Solicitors, we meticulously assess every aspect of the evidence and case circumstances to identify the strongest possible legal defence. Potential legal defences for counterfeit currency offences include:
Lack of Knowledge:
One of the most common and effective defences is demonstrating that you were unaware the currency was counterfeit. If you unknowingly came into possession of fake notes or coins, you cannot be held criminally liable.
No Intent to Pass as Genuine:
Even if you possessed counterfeit currency, the prosecution must prove intent to use it as genuine. If the currency was not intended for circulation or was in your possession for an innocent reason (e.g., as a collector’s item or novelty), this may constitute a valid defence.
Mistaken Identity:
If the identification evidence linking you to the offence is unreliable or mistaken, this can be robustly challenged in court.
Duress or Coercion:
If you were compelled to participate in counterfeit currency activities under threat of serious harm, this may form the basis of a duress defence.
Procedural Errors or Unlawful Search:
Any procedural failings by law enforcement, including unlawful search and seizure or breaches of PACE (Police and Criminal Evidence Act), can render evidence inadmissible and undermine the prosecution’s case.
Each case is unique, and early legal advice is essential to preserve evidence, protect your rights, and formulate an effective defence strategy.
Pre-Charge Advice & Representation
If you are under investigation for this offence but are yet to be charged, seeking legal advice and representation to fight your corner is important for putting yourself in the best position possible if charges are bought against you.
Find out more about our full Pre-Charge Advice & Representation Directors package.
If you are facing allegations or charges of Forgery or Counterfeit Currency, it is crucial to act quickly and seek expert legal advice. Contact Kang & Co Solicitors on 0330 818 9825 for a confidential discussion about your case. Alternatively, complete our online contact form, and one of our specialist criminal defence lawyers will get back to you promptly.
We are here to provide the legal expertise and support you need during this difficult time.
Our Testimonials
Feedback from our clients is helpful and appreciated at Kang & Co to help our team to continually improve our services.
Our Reputation
We are a Leading National Private Client Criminal Defence Law Firm, that frequently receives 5-star reviews and positive feedback from satisfied clients on Trustpilot, Google Reviews and Yell.
Our ever growing law firm is ranked as a leading firm in the field of Criminal Law by the prestigious Chambers UK Law Firm guide and The Legal 500. This reputation has been developed by providing unrivalled expertise, practical advice, communication and court advocacy.
Kang & Co Solicitors are also recognised as a Top Ranked Law Firm for Criminal Law by the prestigious Chambers & Partners legal guide and The Legal 500. This reputation has been developed by providing unrivalled expertise, practical advice, communication, and court advocacy.
If you choose to appoint us to defend your case, we guarantee that you will be provided with the best legal representation available, which in turn will provide you with the best chance of a successful result at Court.
Navigating Forgery and Counterfeit Currency charges requires careful consideration of the circumstances and a thorough understanding of the law. Our specialised criminal defence team can assess your case, explore potential defences, and vigorously advocate for your rights in court. Contact us today for an initial consultation on 0330 818 9837 and discuss how we can help you defend against the allegations or charges.
Our Offices
Birmingham
Cornwall Buildings
45 Newhall Street
Birmingham, B3 3QR
London
330 High Holborn
London
WC2A 1HL
Milton Keynes
Elder House
Elder Gate
Milton Keynes, MK9 1LR
