Success for Nick Johnson working with UK, US and Greek lawyers in Athens

July 21, 2014

Nick Johnson, one of Exchange Chambers’ fraud specialists, has been working closely with UK and international lawyers (Howard & Byrne, York; Willkie Farr & Gallagher, New York; Anagnostopoulos, Athens) as part of a continuing investigation into alleged corrupt practices in the Greek pharmaceutical industry.

This included appearing before a specialist fraud Investigating Judge in Athens, whose role is similar to that of a senior investigating police officer in the UK. The process resulted this month in the release of the client without any formal grant of bail.

Nick commented: “This case has now been investigated in three jurisdictions and it is fascinating to grapple with the different legal cultures and the issues which arise. Not only are laws and procedures different, Greece for example having an inquisitorial system, but it throws up unique challenges relating to issues such as admissibility of evidence across jurisdictions, disclosure, immunity, co-operation agreements and the principles of international comity. It is vital to retain specialist local counsel and develop a team approach. It has also allowed me to learn and incorporate new skills and approaches into my UK practice.”

Nick has specialised in criminal fraud cases since 2001 and appeared as leading counsel in some of the largest fraud jury trials in the UK.