Michael J E Clark

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

Michael J E Clark, a non-solicitor employed as a trainee legal executive at Attwater and Liell, faced three allegations, but only allegation (c) - improperly purporting to witness signatures not made in his presence - was considered as he had admitted it and agreed to a section 43 order. The Tribunal found allegation (c) substantiated and made a section 43 order controlling his future employment within the solicitors' profession. No express finding of dishonesty was made; the Respondent maintained he never intentionally witnessed unsigned deeds. He was ordered to pay costs of £3,612.22, with the Tribunal noting the Law Society would consider his proposals for settlement given his limited means.

Duties found breached:

• No improper communication with the court

Mitigating factors:

• Respondent apologised and admitted the conduct
• Agreed to the making of a section 43 order
• Young (24) trainee legal executive
• Explained that the improper witnessing practice was one commonly adopted in the office and one he did not agree with