Negotiated Settlements, Plea Agreements and Deferred Prosecution Agreements in Asset Recovery

Course overview

Many recovery cases end in negotiation rather than judgment. Plea agreements, civil settlements and deferred prosecution agreements can return assets years sooner than a contested trial, but they can also look like impunity if poorly handled. This asset recovery settlements course equips practitioners to negotiate deals that recover the most money lawfully and command public confidence.

Participants review the legal frameworks for plea agreements, civil settlements and deferred prosecution agreements in the region and abroad, and the policy debate around negotiated justice in corruption cases. They learn to value the state's position realistically, set negotiation objectives, prepare financial terms, and build safeguards such as full disclosure, monitorships, payment security and consequences for breach. Practical sessions focus on negotiation skills, including preparation, opening positions, concessions and dealing with experienced defence counsel. Transparency and judicial approval are covered in depth, with attention to how settlements are explained to the public.

Participants leave able to plan, negotiate and document recovery settlements that are lawful, valuable and defensible.

What you will be able to do

• Compare plea agreements, civil settlements and deferred prosecution agreements
• Assess when negotiation serves the public interest
• Value the state's case and set negotiation objectives
• Structure financial terms, payment security and breach consequences
• Apply negotiation techniques with experienced counsel
• Prepare agreements for judicial approval and public explanation

Who should attend

For senior prosecutors, state counsel and asset recovery leaders who negotiate or approve settlements in proceeds of crime and corruption cases.

• Senior prosecutors
• State counsel
• Heads of asset recovery agencies
• Anti-corruption agency legal officers
• Attorney general advisers
• Judicial officers reviewing agreements

Course outline

Fees are per participant in US dollars and cover tuition, course materials and your certificate. Travel and accommodation are not included.