When thinking of criminal investigations, the police force will usually spring to mind, but there could potentially be a range of different public or private bodies that have the powers needed to be involved in an investigation, depending on the nature of the alleged offence(s). This could include regulatory breaches or offences related to professional duties as well as more commonly considered criminal offences.

The investigatory bodies could include, but are not limited to:

• The police

• Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC)

• Immigration authorities

• The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)

• The Health and Safety Executive (HSE)

• The Serious Fraud Office (SFO)

• The RSPCA

• Trading Standards

• Local Authority

• Financial Services Authority (FSA)

• Sector-specific professional governing bodies

Whichever authority is investigating you, their main purpose is to gather evidence, usually as a result of suspicions that they have about what is or has been happening. Things that are done or said during an investigation, even in error, at a time when you're under a lot of pressure and potentially in a very stressful environment, could have a significant impact on the future of the investigation and this is why it's so important to have specialist legal support at hand.

As experienced criminal investigations solicitors, Forbes offer expert assistance in relation to any allegations of crime, whether by the police or another authority body. Our 24/7 service, running 365 days a year, means that no matter when you need us, our team can offer specialist support throughout an investigation and any potential prosecution. If you ever need specialist advice in relation to a criminal investigation, our team can help, offering legal expertise nationwide. Call us on 0800 639 3206.