Aziz Ur-Rehman

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

The Respondent, sole principal, COLP, COFA and MLRO of Morgan Mark Solicitors, caused or allowed improper transfers of at least around £198,000 from the firm's client account between 8 July and 20 August 2019 (Allegation 1.1) and caused or allowed the misuse and/or misappropriation of client monies (Allegation 1.2), both proved. Client deposits in at least seven conveyancing matters intended for property completions were paid out for unconnected purposes; the client account held only £3,203.28 by 20 August 2019 when it should have held at least £201,817.84. The Tribunal made an express finding of dishonesty (Allegation 2 proved), applying the Ivey test. The Respondent did not engage and was neither present nor represented. He was struck off the Roll. As at 2 December 2021 the SRA had received 25 Compensation Fund claims totalling £751,989.30.

Duties found breached:

• Act in the client's best interests
• Integrity
• No improper use of client money
• Uphold public trust in the profession

Aggravating factors:

• Dishonesty
• Misuse/misappropriation of client money
• Respondent held all managerial positions (COLP, COFA, MLRO) and had sole control of accounts
• Failure to engage with the regulator or the Tribunal
• Significant harm to clients - 25 Compensation Fund claims totalling £751,989.30