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Industry Insights

Client Acquitted After Lengthy Crown Court Trial for Fraudulent Trading

By 6 August 2025No Comments1 min read

We are pleased to announce that our client has been found not guilty following a three-and-a-half-month trial at St Albans Crown Court. The verdict brings an end to a complex and challenging case which was prosecuted by Hertfordshire Trading Standards.

Partner Katie Kipps represented one of six defendants accused of fraudulent trading. Those indicted were either in charge of the company or were amongst its highest earners. The case centred around the investment of wine via a company called Imperial Wines. The company ran from 2011 – 2018 and enjoyed a turnover of around £17 million. The prosecution’s case at trial concentrated on 41 complainants who between them purchased wine to the value of £6 million.

We commend our client for their resilience throughout this lengthy process and thank instructed Counsel for their dedication and professionalism. Katie Kipps instructed Daniel Frier and Sophie Evans of Mountford Chambers.

This outcome reflects the team’s dedication and expertise in pursuing justice for those we serve.