Biography
I am a specialist criminal and regulatory lawyer, with extensive experience in representing individuals and companies that are the subject of investigations, proceedings and enforcement. This includes cases brought by the SFO, FCA, CPS, HMRC and Department for BEIS.
I have a strong track record in reputation management for businesses and individuals including advising at a pre-charge stage and making successful written representations to law enforcement agencies and professional regulators to avoid criminal prosecutions and enforcement proceedings.
My practice also focuses on all aspects of investigations and proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA) to include restraint orders, account freezing and forfeiture orders, asset forfeiture and confiscation proceedings.
My practice extends to advising companies on regulatory and compliance issues arising from the CBD industry.
I provide commercial and pragmatic advice to clients.
Testimonials
"Colette is an absolute diamond; she's a powerhouse." "She's fantastic, always very diligent and is a very good lawyer." "She is a real privilege to know in a professional capacity - Colette is calm and in control, very thoughtful and an excellent brain." - Chambers & Partners 2025 - Band 2
"Colette Kelly has a wide-ranging practice advising clients on POCA issues related to fraud and money laundering. She has notable expertise in relation to third-party recovery.
"She has a good knowledge of the law, has a realistic approach to client positions, and offers pragmatic solutions." "She has good interpersonal skills and is dedicated to her matters and clients. She is able to deal with difficult, highly charged situations”. - Chambers & Partners
2021 - Ranked lawyer
“Colette Kelly has a wide-ranging practice advising clients on POCA issues related to fraud and money laundering. She has notable expertise in relation to third-party recovery”. Chambers & Partners 2022 - POCA and asset forfeiture
“Colette Kelly is absolutely excellent at what she does”. Chambers & Partners 2023 - POCA and asset forfeiture
Publications
Commentary in The Times on the tenure of the previous Director SFO, Lisa Osofsky.
Commentary in Compliance + More on a potential deferred prosecution agreement for Entain
