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ECCTA 2023 overhauls identification principle: SFO embraces 'senior manager' test and failure to prevent fraud offence; corporate liability widened, guidance awaited

Published on: 19 February 2024

Published by a Law360 reporter
Legal News
Article summary

Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA 2023)

Through the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA 2023), reforms have taken hold, shifting corporate fault from the old ‘directing mind and will’ test to a ‘senior manager’ benchmark. Sara Lawson KC confirmed that the SFO is actively weighing adjustments to the identification principle, which permits the agency to attribute criminal responsibility to companies for individuals’ misconduct. Addressing a white-collar defence gathering in London, Lawson described the changes — which make it easier for prosecutors to pursue companies for economic crimes — as 'a very nice Christmas present for us'. Although the application of the revised threshold is expected to face court challenges, the measures 'should have a huge effect for us', she added. The ECCTA 2023 displaces the long-established approach with the new senior manager model for corporate liability, a development the SFO views as enhancing its ability to proceed against corporates for economic crime...

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