Dilesh Katechia

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

Dilesh Katechia, admitted 2000, was a partner at DHK Jacob & Co Solicitors. A forensic inspection, prompted by his partner's notification, revealed a shortfall on client account of £732,000. Between April and October 2004 he made 10 unauthorised telegraphic transfers totalling £582,000 to payees without client matter ledgers, plus an unauthorised £150,000 bank draft, disguising misappropriations through false ledger entries. He admitted misappropriating funds and was dismissed. The Tribunal found the dishonesty allegation substantiated to the high standard required. He did not appear. He was struck off the Roll and ordered to pay costs of £7,494.53.

Duties found breached:

• Honesty
• No improper use of client money
• No improper solicitation or touting

Aggravating factors:

• Breach of trust placed in the profession by the public
• Very serious matter
• Misappropriation of client funds totalling significant sums
• Disguising misappropriation through false ledger entries
• Failed to reply to Law Society and did not appear at hearing