David May

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

David May, a sole practitioner solicitor, admitted six allegations including five involving dishonesty. He had failed to reconcile client account for 17 months, improperly withdrew and misappropriated client funds (including from probate matters G and T) to fund personal and practice expenses, created 56 false bills of costs, made false cashbook entries, took client cash off the books, and misled his reporting accountants. A minimum shortage of £861,645.28 was found on client account. He was already serving two years' imprisonment for theft. The Tribunal found all allegations substantiated and expressly found dishonesty, describing it as one of the worst cases before it. He was struck off the Roll and ordered to pay costs of £6,601.96, not to be enforced without leave of the Tribunal given his financial situation.

Duties found breached:

• Honesty
• Not mislead third parties or opponents
• No conflict between current clients
• No improper use of client money

Aggravating factors:

• One of the worst cases before the Tribunal
• Disgraceful abuse of client trust
• Minimum cash shortage on client account of £861,645.28
• Use of client money to fund personal living and practice expenses
• Creation of 56 false bills of costs
• Convicted of theft and serving two years' imprisonment

Mitigating factors:

• Self-reported conduct to the Authority
• Made a full confession and admitted all allegations
• Apologised unreservedly and expressed shame
• Poor financial position