Manraj is a Consultant Solicitor for Bivonas, having previously been a Partner at Rosenblatt and the UK Head of Corporate Crime at KPMG LLP.
He specialises in arbitration, compliance, investigations (both internal and external), enforcement, extradition, civil/commercial litigation, tax controversy and white-collar crime/fraud.
Manraj represents High Net Worth Individuals, celebrities and corporations involved in high-profile investigations and legal proceedings.
Recognised for his strategic thinking and precision, Manraj consistently achieves the best possible outcomes for his clients, often navigating complex, multi-jurisdictional cases. His approach combines efficiency and effectiveness, providing clients with clear, tailored strategies for resolving intricate legal matters. His network of professionals, amongst others, include: experts, forensic accountants, foreign lawyers, politicians, technology, financial institutions and tax specialists which further enhance his comprehensive service.
Manraj’s corporate clients have included OMV, HMRC, HSBC, Systemax Inc., Selfridges, Bucherer, Lidl, Ferrero, Schwartz, Ebuyer, Specsavers and Lloyds Banking Group.
- P v C – Acted in a high-value partnership dispute and unfair prejudice petition (s.994) involving claims exceeding £100 million.
- R v M – Successfully defended a political party and its leader against allegations of murder and money laundering.
- R v C – Defended one of the largest-ever VAT fraud (MTIC) cases.
- R v M – Successfully defended two directors accused of duty losses exceeding £7 million from cigarette smuggling into the UK.
- R v B – Secured no further action for four defendants, including a UK Border Force employee, in a £100 million alcohol duty evasion case following a three-year HMRC investigation.
- R v A – Defending two directors in a tax evasion and fraud by false representation case.
- R v HC – Represented a football club in statutory demand and winding-up proceedings, successfully negotiating a settlement.
- MJL – Advised a high-end luxury jeweller (high-value dealer) on money laundering compliance, enhancing its procedures and controls.
- LIBOR (PW) – Represented a rate setter in LIBOR investigations. Submitted detailed written representations, resulting in no further action being taken.
- R v H & Others – 5 defendants charged with kidnapping/false imprisonment, s18 GBH and strangling – all defendants acquitted.
- CumEx Scandal – Representing key parties involved in one of the largest financial trading scandals in Europe.
- R v X – Representing a client in a criminal investigation concerning money laundering and cryptocurrency valued at over £30 million.
- Successfully intervened in high-value matrimonial proceedings and secured a judgement declaring that a property worth in excess of £10million featuring in the divorce claim was held on trust by party in the divorce. Manraj also secured an order for his client’s costs.
- Successfully challenged extradition proceedings brought by the Czech Republic authorities against a UK national for money laundering and firearm offences.
Manraj is an Accredited Counter Fraud Specialist.
Legal 500 London: Civil Fraud/White Collar Crime – Testimonials
“Manraj Somal is very knowledgeable, particularly in fraud cases. He consistently goes the extra mile for his clients.”
“Extremely client-friendly, Manraj always prioritizes his clients’ individual needs.”
“His involvement in cases is invaluable – highly responsive, practical, and diligent. Manraj prepares key documentation and detailed statements with precision and speed. His personal touch is also a huge asset in client management.”
“Manraj is routinely instructed by high-net worth individuals facing UK agency investigations.”