Jeremy Fieldhouse

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

Jeremy Fieldhouse, a salaried partner at Penningtons LLP admitted in 1974, was adjudged bankrupt on 21 April 2005 but failed to notify the Law Society and his firm, and continued to practise (doing conveyancing) without a valid Practising Certificate until 14 July 2005. He believed an annulment of the bankruptcy was imminent due to promised third-party funds and self-deluded himself that bankruptcy was not in effect. He admitted both allegations of conduct unbefitting a solicitor. No dishonesty was alleged or found. The Tribunal imposed an indefinite suspension, citing his 18 months out of work, risk of relapse and unsound judgement, while indicating rehabilitation and eventual return to legal employment was possible. He was ordered to pay costs subject to detailed assessment unless agreed.

Duties found breached:

• Not mislead third parties or opponents
• Hold a current practising certificate

Aggravating factors:

• Had not worked for 18 months
• Concern regarding possibility of relapse per psychiatrist
• Series of unsound judgements including continuing belief that a third party would resolve matters
• Breach of important professional requirements

Mitigating factors:

• Admitted the allegations
• No complaint or loss to clients
• Underwent a self-imposed suspension of some 15 months
• Suffering from clinical depression/ill-health at the relevant time
• Ruinous financial position
• Personal (not professional) debts arising from divorce and property crash