Kerr Clement
Allegation / charges
Breaches, Code of Conduct 2011, Failures, SRA Principles 2011
Findings — machine-extracted (anthropic-batch:claude-opus-4-8); verify against the decision
Kerr Clement, an assistant commercial property solicitor at Burnett Barker Solicitors Ltd, admitted failing to register his clients' interests in the purchase of the Old Eagle Pub within the appropriate time, and failing to perform within agreed/reasonable timescales undertakings given to Together Commercial Finance Ltd/Priority Law and to Barclays Bank regarding registration of securities. The Tribunal, dealing with the matter on the papers via an Agreed Outcome, found his admissions properly made and assessed culpability within indicative band 3, but approved a reduced fine of £5,500 reflecting his means, plus costs of £1,350. No finding of dishonesty was made.
Duties found breached:
Aggravating factors:
- Experienced solicitor (admitted 2009) with direct control of the matters
- Failure to comply with undertakings given
- Caused harm to clients, the Firm and the reputation of the profession
- Failed to act in the best interests of his clients
- Conduct assessed as more serious, falling within indicative fine band 3
Mitigating factors:
- Full cooperation with the SRA
- Admissions made at the earliest opportunity
- Reduction in fine on account of his financial means