Elizabeth Hayes
"Elizabeth's experience as a former Serious Fraud Office prosecutor proved invaluable in navigating our government investigation to a favourable resolution."
— Chief Executive Officer Financial Services Firm
Overview
Elizabeth Hayes is Counsel at Jim Coates Law, where she focuses on white collar defence and government investigations. A former prosecutor with the Serious Fraud Office and Crown Prosecution Service, Elizabeth brings unique insight into how UK authorities investigate and prosecute complex criminal matters.
Her practice includes government investigations, FCA enforcement matters, Bribery Act 2010 compliance, and internal investigations. Elizabeth represents corporations and individuals facing scrutiny from the SFO, FCA, CMA, and other UK and European agencies.
During her tenure at the Serious Fraud Office, Elizabeth prosecuted complex fraud cases, including securities fraud, banking fraud, and money laundering schemes. She gained extensive trial experience and a deep understanding of how major investigations are conducted.
Elizabeth is known for her ability to protect clients' interests while maintaining constructive relationships with government officials, often achieving favourable outcomes without the need for trial.
Education
King's College London
Bachelor of Laws (LLB), 2011
First Class Honours
University College London
Bachelor of Arts, 2008
Economics
Experience
- Prosecutor, Serious Fraud Office (2014-2020)
- Crown Prosecution Service – Specialist Fraud Division
- SFO Director's Commendation for Outstanding Performance (2019)
Admissions
- Solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales
- Law Society of England and Wales
- Higher Rights of Audience (Criminal)
- Admitted to practise before the Courts of England and Wales
Recognition
- Chambers UK – White-Collar Crime & Investigations (2023-2025)
- The Legal 500 UK – Rising Star (2021-2023)
- Who's Who Legal (Europe) – Investigations (2024-2025)