Susan Lebreton-Towell

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

On an agreed outcome dealt with on the papers, the Tribunal found that Ms Lebreton-Towell conducted reserved legal activity (probate application for reward in December 2018) when not permitted, practised as a solicitor while not authorised, and failed to pay client money promptly into an approved client account. These breaches included failing to act with integrity, in clients' best interests, to protect client money, and to maintain public trust. Allegations of failing to co-operate with the SRA and the aggravating feature of manifest incompetence were withdrawn by agreement. No express finding of dishonesty was made (lack of integrity only). The misconduct was assessed as serious but not warranting strike-off. She was suspended from practice for 3 months and ordered to pay agreed costs of £16,000.

Duties found breached:

• Act in the client's best interests
• Integrity
• No conflict between current clients
• No improper use of client money
• Not misrepresent regulated status
• Uphold public trust in the profession