Justice

The Criminal Assets Section (CAS) provides an in-house, independent solicitor service to the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) whose operational mandate is to carry out investigations into the suspected proceeds of criminal conduct.

In addition to conveyancing services, CAS provides litigation and advisory services on a wide range of legal matters including:

• proceeds of crime proceedings before the High Court
• tax appeals before the Tax Appeals Commission
• Revenue debt recovery and social welfare overpayments proceedings
• applications under money laundering legislation made before the District Court
• applications under Police Property legislation
• contracts and settlement agreements
• judicial review proceedings
• plenary proceedings
• advisory matters

The Garda Litigation Section deals with civil actions against An Garda Síochána. The Section’s work includes claims for damages for assault, wrongful arrest, false imprisonment, malicious prosecution, miscarriage of justice, deceit and defamation.

The Section also handles non-party discovery applications seeking disclosure of documentation, Garda Vetting Appeals, Firearms Appeals, and claims pursuant to Garda Síochána Compensation legislation.

The role of the Justice & Crime Section is pivotal in representing the State in European Arrest Warrant, Extradition and Mutual Legal Assistance court applications. This essential function is integral to Ireland’s active participation in combating international crime.

The Section also deals with the Transfer of Sentenced Persons; inquests arising from deaths in custody of the Irish Prison Service or An Garda Síochána; licensing cases and Dublin Circuit Court Police Property Appeals.

The cases involve all domestic courts, the CJEU and the Coroner’s Court. The work of the Section is broad and fast paced. We regularly engage with our clients and stakeholders to maximise our efficiency in the delivery of this specialist strategic work for the State.

The Legal Services Section works with a range of stakeholders, including legal firms, An Garda Siochána and the Department of Foreign Affairs on a variety of legal matters. These include civil mutual assistance, licensing applications and company restorations. The Section also conducts criminal prosecutions in the District Court on behalf of certain Ministers.