A Restraint or Account Freezing Order (AFO) is an interim injunction made by the court that restrains a defendant from disposing of or dissipating assets. Such orders can be made against an individual or a company where there is a real risk that a defendant will remove or conceal assets.

The use of these injunctions must not be oppressive and an individual must still be able to afford reasonable living expenses and legal costs.

Most orders will be made without notice but there is a provision to apply for the order to be varied.

If your account has been frozen or your assets have been restrained and you are unsure why, and/or you require legal advice to challenge any orders, Nicholls & Nicholls are best placed to assist.