Solicitors’ practice closed by SRA amid ‘dishonesty’ suspicion

A solicitors’ practice in central Manchester has closed a result of intervention from the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

The SRA has acted in respect of Clinch Solicitors based at 40 Princess Street.

It said its Adjudication Panel was satisfied that there was reason to suspect dishonesty on the part of Andrew Clinch in connection with the firm’s business and it was necessary to to intervene to protect the interests of clients and former clients of the firm.

The SRA said: “The Adjudication Panel is satisfied that Andrew Clinch has breached the SRA Principles 2011 which are rules applicable to him by virtue of section 9 of the Administration of Justice Act 1985 (as amended) (paragraph 32(1)(a) of Schedule 2 to the Administration of Justice Act 1985 (as amended)).

Marion Vesey of Shacklocks, at St Peter’s House, Bridge Street, Mansfield, has been appointed as the intervening agent.

An intervention by the SRA means it can effectively close a practice. It is a step taken to protect clients’ interests and monehy in the public interest. It is a protective measure and does not necessarily mean it has made any findings against a regulated firm or individual.