Client Avoids Prison and Receives Suspended Sentence for Fraudulent Offences

Our client was arrested at a London bank after staff raised concerns over identity documents he provided when trying to open an account. Police attended, and our client was found to be in possession of a fake passport and multiple fraudulent bank cards and documentation.

He was subsequently charged with; possession of an identity document with improper intention, fraud by false representation and possession of articles for use in fraud.

Having been advised on the strengths and weaknesses of the case, our client indicated a guilty plea at the Magistrates’ Court in order to receive the maximum credit available to him.

Due to the seriousness of the case, the matter was sent to Inner London Crown Court for sentence.

There are no sentencing guidelines for the lead offence, possession of an identity document with improper intention. Therefore, case law had to be considered, which noted an immediate custodial sentence to be the majority outcome.

Our client was not a UK national and hoped to return to Nigeria to be able to support his wife and young children who were financially dependant on him. Thus, he was highly concerned at the prospect of custody.

We sought to obtain all mitigation possible. In her submissions, instructed Counsel referred to the new Sentencing Act 2026 and cases of a similar nature where the Court of Appeal had reduced sentence.

The Court was successfully persuaded to suspend sentence, meaning our client would not be remanded to immediate custody. Our client received a sentence of 6 months suspended for 1 year, with no additional requirements.

Due to careful consideration and advice, our client was able to return home to his family.  He was extremely happy with the result.

I would like to sincerely thank you, your law firm, and your entire team for the excellent representation and support you provided throughout my case. I truly appreciate all the hard work, dedication, and professionalism that went into handling the matter on my behalf.

Katie Lobo advised and represented this client at the Magistrates’ Court and Victoria Taylor of Crucible Chambers was instructed at the Crown Court.