Freezing order

A freezing order, also known as a Mareva injunction, is a court order restraining a defendant from dealing with, disposing of, or dissipating their assets generally, pending resolution of a claim. It is broader than a single-account freeze order directed at one bank or exchange account.

This type of order targets the defendant’s overall wealth and conduct, rather than just one identified account, and can cover property, other bank accounts, and assets not yet located. It is used where there is a real risk a defendant will move or hide assets to defeat a judgment.

Because it restrains a person’s broader financial dealings, courts apply a high threshold before granting one, and it is usually sought together with an ex parte application when speed is essential.

When it matters

A freezing order is considered when a defendant appears to have wider assets beyond the immediate scam proceeds, and there is a genuine risk those assets could disappear before trial.