White collar crime specialist Barry Vitou, a prominent commentator on deferred prosecution agreements, is to join the London office of US firm Greenberg Traurig, the firm announced today. 

Vitou, formerly partner at City firm Pinsent Masons, will be in charge of a new London office for Greenberg Traurig’s white collar defence & special investigations practice.

Barry Vitou

Barry Vitou

The white collar practice - already established in the US - has experience protecting companies and individuals under government scrutiny as well as structuring internal investigations, developing guidelines and implementing compliance programs.

Vitou has previously advised in connection with investigations and prosecutions conducted by UK-based law enforcement agencies and prosecutors including the Serious Fraud Office, Financial Conduct Authority, and Information Commissioner’s Office.

He said: ‘Greenberg Traurig’s culture and stellar white collar practice will be a perfect fit for me. With the criminalisation of corporate law continuing apace and cross-border cooperation among law enforcement agencies investigating and prosecuting white collar crime, a truly integrated global white collar defence practice levels the playing field.’

Richard Rosenbaum, executive chairman at Greenberg Traurig, said: ‘Companies and individuals facing scrutiny from the US or foreign governments need experienced practitioners available worldwide at a moment’s notice. The launch of our London practice with Barry further enhances our capability in Europe.’

Greenberg Traurig’s London office has more than 80 lawyers.