
Free Business Review
Claim your Free Business Review to understand what options are available to you.
Require Immediate Support? Free Director Helpline: 0800 644 6080
Free Director Helpline: 0800 644 6080
Published:
In general, it is uncommon for company directors to be arrested and jailed for business fraud. As with any area of law, however, this depends on the factors within each case. If a business is liquidated via compulsory or Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidation, the actions of directors leading up to this time will be investigated by the Insolvency Service
If potential fraudulent activity is discovered, the case could be passed as a criminal investigation to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), but again, there may be redeeming circumstances.
Don't Worry - There are thousands of other company directors going through the same process. No matter what position you are in and need looking for options, speak to a member of the Real Business Rescue team. It's Free & Confidential.Received a Bounce Back Loan?
The team are available now - 0800 644 6080
Here are a few things that might be considered within each case:
Scale of the fraudulent activity
Was it a one-off offence, or a large-scale operation? A well-planned and executed defrauding of the system will clearly attract a stronger punishment.
Who was affected by the fraud?
Were creditors or members of the general public directly affected by what happened? If a material, identifiable loss was incurred, the case will come under investigation but it doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll be arrested.
Do you have a history of unfit conduct as a director?
Your previous history as a company director could affect the outcome of a case.
Trading whilst insolvent
Some directors do this unknowingly and with the best intentions, unaware that they are committing an offence. Others, however, deliberately accept deposits from customers knowing that they cannot supply the product or service requested.
Already disqualified as a director?
Acting as a company director, or instructing someone else in the direction of a company, if you have already been disqualified is a breach of the Company Director Disqualification Act, 1986.
Selling assets at an undervalue to a ‘phoenix’ company
Pre-pack administration, or ‘phoenixism’ as it is commonly known, is certainly a legal product, but a problem can arise when directors ‘sell’ business assets to the new company at less than market value. This results in a reduction in available funds for creditors when the company is liquidated.
False accounting
This might involve over-stating revenue and profits, or under-stating the level of company liabilities in order to present the picture of a healthy business. Reasons for doing this include hiding financial losses, obtaining finance that would otherwise not be available, and to inflate the company share price.
If your company is struggling with unmanageable debts, squeezed cash flow, or an uncertain future, you are far from alone. We speak to company directors just like you every single day, and we are here to give you the help and advice you need.
Call our team today on 0800 644 6080
It’s worth knowing that HMRC runs voluntary disclosure campaigns for companies within specific sectors, allowing them to ‘come clean’ about transgressions and potentially avoiding criminal action. Sectors that have already been targeted include online traders, medical professionals, electricians, and people with outstanding tax returns or undisclosed offshore investments.
Real Business Rescue can clarify your situation if you’re worried about accusations of business fraud. Just call one of the team to arrange an immediate consultation to discuss your situation and the options available.
All UK sectors are experiencing specific challenges at present, particularly in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. Find out how your sector is performing here.
Simply search your Limited Company Name or Company Number
We will also check if you’re eligible for Director Redundancy
We provide free confidential advice with absolutely no obligation.
Our expert and non-judgemental team are ready to assist directors and stakeholders today.
Claim your Free Business Review to understand what options are available to you.
Find your nearest office - we have more than 100 across the UK. Remote Video Meetings are also available.
Free, confidential, and trusted advice for company directors across the UK.