AVELLUM conducted a risk-based analysis of the client’s business model in terms of compliance with the newly-introduced regulatory framework and criminal liability risks in Ukraine. The central issue was a criminal investigation into illegal gambling allegations targeting a number of international online gambling companies. Our advice included development of the strategy for liaison with prosecution (including through international legal assistance means) and challenge of web-site blockage orders imposed by Ukrainian courts.

Ukrainian law enforcement authorities often misperceive the model of online gambling and gaming business and commence criminal investigations without sufficient jurisdictional nexus. Such investigations not rarely shift to cross-border level due to international nature of business and extensive cooperation with foreign law enforcement authorities. On a local scale, criminal investigations often entail web-site blockages and other investigative actions endangering both the companies and their officers.

AVELLUM team was led by senior partner Kostiantyn Likarchuk with support from counsel Andriy Fortunenko and associates Andrii Kuleba and Valeria Ustiuhova.