Insider trading is a serious offence under Commonwealth law. It often involves allegations of trading on the stock market using confidential, non-public information and can lead to significant criminal penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and reputational damage. These matters are typically investigated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and prosecuted by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP).
At Slades & Parsons, we have extensive experience defending clients charged with financial and corporate crime. If you’re facing insider trading allegations, we offer discreet, outcome-driven legal support to protect your rights and your future. Our team is based in Melbourne and available 24/7 to provide urgent advice.
What Is Insider Trading?
Insider trading occurs when a person uses information that is not generally available to the public and that would likely influence a share price to gain an unfair advantage in financial markets. It is an offence under section 1043A of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).
Examples of insider trading include:
- Buying or selling shares based on confidential boardroom discussions
- Passing inside information to friends, family, or business partners who then trade
- Trading based on non-public announcements such as mergers, acquisitions, or financial results
ASIC conducts detailed investigations into suspected insider trading using transaction data, email records, phone intercepts, and market surveillance. These matters are then referred to the CDPP for prosecution. Even if you believe the evidence is circumstantial, it’s critical to seek legal advice early.
Why These Charges Require a Specialist Insider Trading Lawyer
Insider trading allegations are not just serious, they’re often complex and high-profile. They usually involve individuals in professional roles such as company directors, accountants, brokers, or employees with access to sensitive financial information.
Insider trading is often charged alongside other financial offences, including market manipulation, fraud, and corporate misconduct, all commonly prosecuted as Commonwealth Criminal Offences.
The consequences of a conviction go beyond a prison sentence or financial penalty. You may face lifetime bans from financial roles, loss of professional standing, or corporate disqualification. These reputational impacts can be devastating.
Slades & Parsons offers legal representation specifically tailored to these kinds of charges. We have a strong track record in Commonwealth matters and understand how to challenge the prosecution’s narrative, scrutinise trading data and timelines, and present persuasive evidence in your defence.
Our Approach to Insider Trading Cases
Every case starts with a confidential consultation. During this first meeting, we’ll review the allegations, explain the legal process, and help you understand what to expect. From there, we begin preparing your defence with discretion and strategy.
Our insider trading defence process includes:
- Detailed analysis of ASIC investigation materials and financial records
- Challenging assumptions about access to information or market behaviour
- Strategic engagement with the CDPP or ASIC, where appropriate
- Court preparation and advocacy, focusing on evidentiary weaknesses or alternative explanations
- Reputation management, ensuring minimal public exposure and clear communication throughout the case
Where possible, we also explore non-custodial sentencing options or negotiated resolutions that preserve your career and personal reputation.
Speak With an Insider Trading Lawyer Today
If you’ve been contacted by ASIC, are the subject of an investigation, or have already been charged with insider trading, it’s essential to act quickly. These matters move fast, and early legal intervention can significantly shape the outcome.
Slades & Parsons has defended clients in serious Commonwealth cases for over 35 years. Our lawyers combine discretion, legal precision, and strong courtroom advocacy to deliver the best possible result. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.