Decision record
Andrew John Pinder
JurisdictionEngland & Wales
BodySolicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT)
Professionsolicitor
Case number10656/2010
Date01/01/2010
OutcomeSuspend - Indefinite
Allegation / charges
Breaches
Findings — machine-extracted (anthropic-batch:claude-opus-4-8); verify against the decision
SanctionSuspension
CostsGBP 1,289
Dishonesty foundNo
Sole practitioner admitted two allegations of failing to deliver accountant's reports for periods ending 30 April 2008 and 2009 in breach of s.34(2) Solicitors Act 1974. The Tribunal found both proved, sympathised due to his depression, and suspended him indefinitely with conditions for reinstatement, ordering costs of £1,289. No dishonesty was alleged or found.
Duties found breached:
Mitigating factors:
- Medical condition (long-standing depression since 1993) affecting motivation and ability to cope
- Low client account activity with small sums, no conveyancing, no claims made against him
- Practice closed down in orderly manner with zero client account balance
- Could not afford to pay accountant to prepare reports; intended to apply for waiver
- No previous disciplinary matters
- Admitted both allegations