High Court considers gateways for service out of the jurisdiction re cryptoassets

A recent High Court decision suggests that there is some doubt as to the proper construction of the gateways allowing service out of the jurisdiction for claims relating to property in the jurisdiction, and for claims in constructive or resulting trust relating to assets within the jurisdiction. In particular, the decision suggests that it may … Read more

High Court applies the iniquity exception to privilege

The High Court has held that documents obtained pursuant to a search order were not protected by privilege as the iniquity exception applied: Lakatamia Shipping Company Limited and other v Nobu Su and others [2022] EWHC 3115. Under that principle, privilege does not apply to protect communications made in furtherance of a crime, fraud or … Read more

Information orders granted against cryptocurrency exchanges to help trace stolen cryptocurrency

In a further decision demonstrating the English court’s ability to apply the law flexibly to novel issues arising in relation to crypto assets, the High Court has granted information orders against various foreign cryptocurrency exchanges requiring the provision of information and documentation to help identify those who hold accounts into which stolen cryptocurrency was allegedly … Read more

High Court orders delivery up of stolen Bitcoin against crypto exchange

The High Court held, on an uncontested summary judgment application, that the crypto exchange controlling the wallet into which the claimant’s stolen bitcoin was transferred sat in a position of constructive trustee as against the claimant. It ordered delivery up of the bitcoin as against the fraudsters as well as the exchange: Jones v Persons … Read more