Enforcement Directorate and PMLA

We represent individuals and companies in proceedings by the Enforcement Directorate under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 and the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 – from the first summons to the Supreme Court.

An ED summons usually arrives with little notice and asks for documents that take weeks to assemble. The early work – deciding what to produce, preparing for the statement under Section 50 and testing whether the underlying offence stands – shapes everything that follows.

The firm has acted for directors and promoters of companies, including listed companies, in ED proceedings, alongside the related police and EOW cases.

What we handle

Summons under Section 50 PMLA Preparation, documents, attendance and recorded statements.
Arrest under Section 19 PMLA The grounds of arrest must be given in writing; every arrest is tested against that requirement.
Bail under Section 45 PMLA In the Special Court, the High Court and the Supreme Court.
Attachment of property Provisional attachment under Section 5, the Adjudicating Authority and the Appellate Tribunal.
Quashing of ECIRs Where the underlying scheduled offence has failed or been quashed.
FEMA Show-cause notices, adjudication and compounding.

Questions clients ask

What should I do after an ED summons?

Do not ignore it and do not go unprepared. Collect the documents asked for and take advice before the date; time can be sought where the request is wide.

Is bail possible in a PMLA case?

Yes, though Section 45 sets a high bar; courts also weigh time in custody, delay in the trial and health.

Can ED attach my property?

ED can provisionally attach property for up to 180 days; the attachment must then be confirmed by the Adjudicating Authority, where it can be contested.