REGULATORY INVESTIGATIONS AND ADVICE

We act for partners who are the subject of regulatory investigations by the SRA, and recognise the need to deal with such matters discreetly and in a way which minimises, as far as possible, the stress that inevitably accompanies such investigations. We have had a number of recent instructions arising from allegations of sexual misconduct, and have experience of working with PR Consultants where necessary where it appears that allegations may come into the public domain.

We have experience of negotiating regulatory settlement agreements with the SRA, including in cases where serious allegations have been made. We can advise on all aspects of such investigations, including the application of legal professional privilege, and the obligation to co-operate with the regulator and respond to requests to attend interviews and/or produce documents.

Where litigation is necessary, we are experienced in conducting lengthy and complex proceedings in the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal, as well as appeals from Tribunal decisions to the High Court. We also have experience of applications contesting that Tribunal proceedings disclose no case to answer and/or constitute an abuse of process, and also applications to ensure the confidentiality of proceedings where the publication of the proceedings would impact on the individual’s medical condition.

We also have experience advising individuals subject to internal disciplinary investigations as to whether and when the obligation to self-report the matter to the SRA has been triggered.

Our regulatory practice is led by Partner Andrew Pavlovic, who is recognised as a ‘Next Generation Partner’ by Legal 500 UK 2024 for professional discipline. He is described as ‘a calming influence on any case he works on‘… providing ‘clear, thoughtful and commercially astute advice‘.

CM Murray LLP has been ranked as a ‘Firm to Watch’ by Legal 500 UK 2024 for professional discipline.