Andrew John Tilsiter

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

Andrew John Tilsiter, admitted 1995 and a partner at Harold Benjamin solicitors, misappropriated client funds totalling approximately £142,506 across three matters by forging letters and diverting clients' damages/sale proceeds into his own mortgage and building society accounts. The Tribunal found all allegations proven, including an express finding of dishonesty under the Twinsectra test. Although a strike-off would normally follow, the Tribunal treated the case as wholly exceptional given his medical condition, full repayment, admissions and co-operation, and instead ordered indefinite suspension plus costs of £18,171.92.

Duties found breached:

• No taking unfair advantage
• No conflict between current clients
• No improper use of client money

Aggravating factors:

• Deliberate acts including forging letters to clients
• Paid client money into his own mortgage account on three separate occasions
• Substantial total misappropriation of approximately £142,506
• One affected client (the husband in the conveyancing matter) was particularly vulnerable

Mitigating factors:

• All monies repaid in full with lost interest at the first opportunity
• Admitted all allegations save dishonesty and co-operated with the enquiry from the outset
• Money was not used, merely held
• Suffering from psychological symptoms / mental health issues and work-related stress
• Numerous favourable testimonials including from a Deputy District Judge and current employer
• Resigned immediately when confronted
• Matters had taken place some time ago and Respondent no longer practising