Press Release

Shoosmiths is pleased to announce the appointment of Rebecca Copcutt as legal director in its expanding Financial Services Disputes and Investigations practice. Rebecca brings extensive experience in high-profile investigations and regulatory matters, having previously served as a partner at Paul Hastings, where she was recognised for her work on complex international matters.

Rebecca’s track record includes representing financial services firms and individuals in enforcement investigations brought by UK and international agencies, including some of the most high-profile matters in recent times.  These investigations have involved defending allegations of benchmark manipulation, systems and controls failings, fraud, money laundering breaches, market abuse and bribery, corruption, and tax offences. Rebecca regularly supports clients through internal investigations and advises them on due diligence matters, whistleblowing best practice and regulatory compliance concerns.

Rebecca is recognised as a Recommended Lawyer in Legal 500 and has been seconded to the investigations function of a market-leading investment bank.

Rebecca has a deep commitment to social mobility and equal representation in law firms, having previously co-chaired a firm’s Diversity Committee, been the partner-lead for the Pro Bono Committee and co-chaired a Women’s Network.

Shoosmiths’ Financial Services Disputes and Investigations practice is best known for representing financial services firms and individuals in regulatory enforcement proceedings brought by the FCA, conducting internal regulatory investigations, and advising on financial crime issues such as anti-money laundering, bribery, corruption and sanctions.  The team is also highly regarded for advising on complex change programmes, representing individuals under investigation, and handling litigation following regulatory breaches.  Shoosmiths regularly advises on notification and reporting obligations to bodies such as the FCA, PRA, NCA, and SFO, and assists clients with compliance audits, drafting compliance policies, and represents individuals seeking senior management functions.

Daren Allen, head of the Financial Services Disputes and Investigations practice at Shoosmiths, said: “Rebecca’s appointment is a significant addition to our practice. Her deep experience handling high-stakes investigations, coupled with her business development acumen, will greatly benefit our clients across our key sectors.”

Rebecca commented on her new role: “I am looking forward to collaborating with colleagues and using my experience to help clients navigate the ever-evolving contentious regulatory and financial crime landscape.  With specialist disputes and investigations lawyers working across the UK’s banking and financial services sector, and an enviable client list, Shoosmiths is at the forefront of some of the most impactful matters in the market which will contribute to the firm’s impressive growth trajectory.”