Confiscation Orders & Freezing Orders

Do I have to be warned before my property can be frozen?

No. The police, the DPP or the CCC will normally apply for a freezing notice or freezing order without telling you about the application. If the application is successful, you will be personally served with a copy of the notice or order, along with anyone else they know has an interest in the property (for example, your partner, family members or a bank).

What should I do after I receive a freezing notice or freezing order?

If property has been frozen or confiscated you must not do anything with the property listed in the freezing notice or freezing order as you can be charged with a criminal office.

It is imperative that you get legal advice immediately as you have only 7 days to produce a statutory declaration that:

• says whether or not anyone else has an interest in the frozen property, and
• gives the names and address (if known) of every other person who has an interest in the frozen property.

If you do not provide a statutory declaration, you could be charged with a criminal offence.

If you want to object to the frozen property being confiscated, you can file an objection with the court within 28 days after you found out about the freezing notice or order.