On July 14, 2017 a seminar on “Searches, seizures, interrogations, arrests! How to save your business? How to protect yourself?” was held in Kyiv. Yevhen Petrenko, Partner, Head of Criminal Law and Litigation, Attorney at EUCON International Legal Center took part in the seminar.
The seminar was divided into eleven blocks, which included legal ways of asset protection, grounds for opening a criminal case, company searches, seizure of documents, interrogations, arrests and recommendations on the algorithm of actions for officials and company personnel during investigations of economic crimes. It is very important to understand the extent of permissible conduct for both parties in order to protect themselves against the unlawfulness of the enforcement and inspection authorities. Yevhen told how to properly conduct a media campaign during the search, namely how to communicate with the media. In particular, he explained how to correctly highlight the problem and argue your position without worsening the situation.
It is important to note the part of the presentation related to interrogation. Yevhen explained in detail the procedure of such investigation and described what questions are normally asked. He explained how and why one should prepare for interrogation. Continuing this topic, Yevhen stressed the responsibility established by law regarding refusal to testify or providing false information.
Regarding the arrest, besides the procedure itself, a special attention was focused on methods for return of property seized. The lawyer gave examples from his personal practice and provided practical advice on return of illegally seized property.
In the end of his speech, Yevhen gave recommendations on preserving business during states of criminal procedural attacks. His advice related to interaction between the company personnel and the lawyer during the search, as well as rules of communication with law enforcement agencies and the court.