Insights from GIR Live Women in Investigations conference in London

FRA Partner Emma Hodges, Director Weng Yee Ng and Manager Amy Bains recently attended the GIR Live Women in Investigations conference in London. The conference included a fireside chat with Lisa Osofsky, Director of the SFO, as well as panel discussions reviewing government investigations from across the globe and the impact of technology on the future of investigations.

Below are some of their key highlights from the conference:

• The SFO can and will offer immunity deals in the form of cooperation agreements under the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act.
• Judge McMahon's findings in the US v. Connolly matter delivered a warning to regulators outsourcing important investigatory responsibilities to external counsel which may make it more challenging for authorities to take on some cases in the absence of subcontracting.
• The "Yates Memorandum", otherwise known as the DOJ's "Individual Accountability Policy", holds individuals accountable for corporate wrongdoing.
• The multi-jurisdictional / cross-border Petrobas case in Brazil highlights the importance of international cooperation between nations and the consideration of data transfers across borders.
• There is an ongoing drive in China to tackle corruption, with an increased focus on corporations. However, China's new blocking statute law may preclude corporations from sharing evidence with foreign authorities during investigations.
• There is an increase in anti-corruption regulations being introduced around the world and a varying level of maturity of the enforcement of those regulations.
• The privacy concerns associated with businesses allows employees to use private mobile phones for conducting business, highlighting the importance of keeping personal and work communications separate.

http://gir.live/wii2019