Michael Thomas Connolly

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

The Respondent, head of a matrimonial department, missed limitation periods on two client matters (a CICB claim for Mr H and a paint-damage claim for Mr and Mrs S). He covered up his mistakes by repeatedly lying to clients that proceedings had been issued and settlements/awards obtained, paying them sums from his own money approximating what they would have received. No file was opened with his employer and no client funds were misappropriated. He admitted the conduct from an early stage. The Tribunal found the allegation substantiated, describing deliberate and repeated deception and a lack of probity, and ordered him struck off with costs of £851. Filing of the order was suspended for one month at the Respondent's request to enable handover of ongoing matters. The Tribunal referred to 'lack of probity' but made no express finding of dishonesty.

Duties found breached:

• No improper solicitation or touting

Aggravating factors:

• Deliberate and repeated deception of clients over a period of time
• Two separate incidents, not a one-off aberration
• Damaged reputation of the profession and undermined public confidence

Mitigating factors:

• Admitted the matters at an early stage and did not seek to resile from admissions
• Candid and cooperative throughout
• No financial benefit to the Respondent and no misappropriation of client funds
• Clients suffered no financial loss as he paid them from his own resources
• Was suffering from stress at the relevant time
• Positive reference from former employers Askew Bunting