Robin Edward Stubbings

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

Robin Edward Stubbings, an experienced solicitor and sole owner/COLP/COFA of CC Bell & Son, was found to have breached undertakings given as seller's solicitor in a conveyancing transaction by failing to provide RX3 and ST5 forms to remove a title restriction (delay of ~15 months, causing cancellation of the buyers' registration and additional Land Registry fees), and to have failed to cooperate with the SRA's investigation. The Tribunal found both allegations proved (though not the part relating to failure to provide financial information for fine assessment). No dishonesty was alleged or found. Given significant aggravation from prior disciplinary history involving similar failings, the Tribunal imposed a Level 4 fine of £17,500, practice restrictions for 18 months, and costs of £5,500. The Respondent did not attend and the hearing proceeded in his absence.

Duties found breached:

• No improper communication with the court
• Uphold public trust in the profession
• Honour professional undertakings

Aggravating factors:

• Previous disciplinary matters (2019 Tribunal finding - fined £15,000 including failure to cooperate with SRA and failure to progress matters)
• 2022 Regulatory Settlement Agreement for failure to cooperate with SRA and failing to maintain public trust (fined £2,000)
• Similar/repeated nature of failings
• Extremely experienced solicitor
• Direct harm to Crofts' clients causing delay and additional financial expense
• Wholly culpable, sole control and responsibility

Mitigating factors:

• Conduct was not motivated by any improper intent
• Actions were not spontaneous but arose from failure to act in timely manner
• Eventually complied with the undertaking and provided documents
• Expressed apologies/regret in correspondence