Christopher John Bentley

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

Christopher John Bentley, a sole principal solicitor, was found to have made six improper transfers of client money totalling over £29,000 to his office account to keep it within its overdraft limit and fund drawings, staff wages and overheads. He fabricated invoices and posted false ledger entries showing cheques sent to a client (Mr W) and to counsel (Mr Lobbenburg QC) that were never sent, to disguise improper use of client funds, and failed to keep proper accounting records. The Tribunal found all allegations proved, including dishonesty on allegations 1.1-1.3. Proceeding in his absence, the Tribunal found no exceptional circumstances and ordered he be struck off the Roll and pay costs of £18,794.12.

Duties found breached:

• Proper basis for allegations
• Integrity
• Uphold public trust in the profession
• Segregate client money
• No improper use of client money
• Accounting records, reconciliation and reports

Aggravating factors:

• Proven dishonesty in material breach of obligations
• Deliberate, calculated, repeated misconduct over a significant period
• Attempts to conceal wrongdoing via false ledger entries and fabricated invoices
• Conduct planned to coincide with the Firm's financial need
• Breach of trust placed by clients; experienced solicitor solely responsible

Mitigating factors:

• Made good the shortage on client account, some before the SRA investigation
• Made admissions to the Accounts Rules breaches during FI interview