Environmental Investigations
We have a team of expert regulatory lawyers who are experienced in advising corporate and individual clients on various different types of Environment Agency Investigations.
Environment Agency Investigations
The law governing the protection of the environment is complex and affects both businesses and individuals. The penalties for breach can be substantial, including heavy fines, imprisonment and the suspension or revocation of a licence. The legislation provides for regulation of activities that have the potential to cause pollution of the land, air or water:
Contact UsEnforcing the legislation
Authorised Environment Agency Officers from the Environment Agency are granted powers that are similar to those of the police..
They have the power to enter land and non-residential premises and remove documents for inspection. In certain limited circumstances they can enter residential premises. Enforcement notices – controlled waste
The occupier of land on which controlled waste has been unlawfully deposited can be served with a notice requiring him to remove it within a specified time and/or to take specified steps with a view to eliminating or reducing the consequences.
Failure to comply is an offence and in certain circumstances the Environment Agency may remove the waste and seek to recover its costs. These may be considerable, particularly if the waste is special or hazardous waste.
Works notices – controlled waters
If the Agency considers that poisonous, noxious or polluting material is present in, or likely to enter controlled waters, it can serve a works notice on the person(s) responsible, requiring them to carry out works and operations necessary to prevent or mitigate the pollution.
The Agency may also carry out such works and operations itself and seek to recover its costs from the person(s) responsible. These costs can be considerable.
Enforcement and Suspension Notices - Installations
If the Agency considers that an authorised installation is being operated in breach of any condition of the permit, the Agency can serve an enforcement notice requiring steps to be taken to remedy the breach.
If the Agency considers that there is an imminent risk of serious pollution, it can serve a suspension notice directing that the operation is suspended until the notice is withdrawn, which may cause the business to shut down.
What we do
Our expert environmental lawyers can help you with the following:
– If you are already receiving routine inspections from an enforcement authority and they have identified areas of concern and asked you to make improvements, we can make representations on your behalf.
– If you are later asked to take part in a formal interview at the Agency’s offices, we can assist you in deciding whether to agree to such an interview and, if so, be present to represent you throughout the interview.
– If you have received, or expect to receive, an enforcement, suspension or works notice, we can advise you as to whether you should consider appealing the issue of the notice, or make representations on your behalf as to the terms of the notice.
– If you receive a summons alleging one or more pollution offences, we can advise you as to the prospects of successfully defending the case and can represent you in Court.
Specialist solicitors
Our multidisciplinary team is made up of specialists in a wide range of services, which means you'll always be represented by an expert in your area.
No-strings initial call
Get in touch to arrange a no-obligation, fully confidential call to discuss your case and work out if you want to continue.
Nationwide support
Speak to solicitors in one of our offices throughout England and Wales, or arrange calls and remote meetings.
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Are you interested in Environmental Agency Investigations?
Use the form on the right to get in touch with our team and arrange an initial call to discuss your situation. We will use this no-obligation, fully confidential initial call to learn more about your case and help you understand your options going forward.
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