Alexander David Winterton & Michael Miller

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

Two solicitor partners of City Legal Services LLP were struck off the Roll. The Tribunal found all allegations proved, including that the First Respondent (Winterton) dishonestly signed Form RF1 falsely stating the firm held no client money - having transferred £20,373.17 out of the client account the day before signing. Both Respondents grossly overcharged client Mrs H (bill of £147,977 assessed at £24,272, reduced by ~84%), failed to comply with Court Orders and an SRA Adjudicator's order, failed to lodge Accountants Reports, failed to co-operate with the SRA, and acted in conflict situations. The hearing proceeded in the Respondents' absence. Both struck off with joint and several costs of £37,000.

Duties found breached:

• Accounting records, reconciliation and reports
• Advise on alternatives, settlement and outcome
• Comply with and respect court orders
• No conflict between current clients
• No improper communication with the court
• No taking unfair advantage
• Report serious misconduct of others

Aggravating factors:

• Gross overcharging of a client by almost 84%
• Failure to comply with Court Orders and Adjudicator's decision
• No remorse demonstrated
• Contempt shown towards regulator, clients and professional colleagues
• Failure to engage with the SRA and the proceedings
• First Respondent attempted to hide his dishonesty through repeated false denials
• Transfer of £20,373.17 out of client account the day before signing the false form

Mitigating factors:

• No previous findings of the Tribunal against either Respondent