Dilesh Katechia

Findings — machine-extracted (anthropic-batch:claude-opus-4-8); verify against the decision

The Respondent, a solicitor admitted in 2000, consciously and deliberately withdrew client funds to which he was not entitled, causing a shortfall of £732,000 via 10 telegraphic transfers (£582,000) and a £150,000 bank draft, using disguising entries. He admitted misappropriation to his partner and was dismissed. The Tribunal found the dishonesty allegation substantiated to the high standard, struck him off the Roll, and ordered costs of £7,494.53.

Duties found breached:

• No improper use of client money
• No improper solicitation or touting

Aggravating factors:

• Shortfall on client account of £732,000
• 10 unauthorised telegraphic transfers totalling £582,000 plus a £150,000 bank draft
• Deliberately disguised misappropriations by allocating payments to client ledgers to conceal them
• Breach of public trust in the profession
• Failed to respond to Law Society enquiries