Timothy John Chapman

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

Timothy John Chapman, a sole practitioner solicitor, held a General Power of Attorney for a client and family friend, Mr T, who had agreed to loan him up to £60,000 drawn from Mr T's account. Chapman exceeded that limit and made numerous unauthorised withdrawals (352 withdrawals totalling £277,677.18 over the relevant period). He admitted both allegations, including dishonesty, and self-reported to the SRA when he could not repay. The Tribunal found the allegations substantiated and that dishonesty was found and admitted. Despite strong testimonials and partial repayment, the Tribunal struck him off the Roll and ordered him to pay agreed costs of £3,407.90.

Duties found breached:

• No conflict between current clients
• No improper use of client money

Aggravating factors:

• Course of dishonest conduct pursued over a considerable period of time
• Large number of unauthorised withdrawals (352) totalling £277,677.18
• Breach of trust toward a client who was also a close friend and benefactor
• Misuse of a position of trust as Attorney

Mitigating factors:

• Self-reported the misconduct to the SRA
• Expressed remorse and shame; admitted the allegations
• Never intended permanently to deprive the client; intended to repay
• Made efforts to make amends (charged equity in his house, repaid £48,000, passed interest in practice premises to client)
• Strong oral and written testimonials attesting to good character and hard work
• Conduct described as out of character and an aberration; pressures of sole practice and stress