Brian Hoffman

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

Brian Hoffman, an experienced property solicitor and COFA at Hoffman Bokaei, faced six allegations arising largely from a back-to-back share sale transaction for a client (Mr K) who, unknown to him, was bankrupt. Allegation 1.3 (money laundering record-keeping) was withdrawn once documents were located. The Tribunal found allegations 1.1, 1.2 (banking facility breaches of Rule 14.5) and 1.4 (money laundering duties/Principles) NOT proved beyond reasonable doubt, accepting that payments were made on the client's written instructions relating to an underlying transaction under Rule 20.1(f). No dishonesty was alleged or found; a lack of integrity allegation was not proved. Only the discrete accounts-rules breaches (Rules 29.1 and 29.12) were admitted and found proved. The Tribunal imposed a £2,000 fine (reduced for means), an indefinite Restriction Order barring sole practice and COLP/COFA roles, and costs of £16,074 (reduced by one third for means).

Duties found breached:

• Accounting records, reconciliation and reports

Aggravating factors:

• Respondent knew or ought reasonably to have known the conduct was in material breach of his obligation to protect the public and the reputation of the profession
• Experienced solicitor and COFA who should have ensured compliance

Mitigating factors:

• Genuine insight
• Open and frank admissions once aware of breaches
• Full cooperation with the SRA
• Deficiencies rectified and no client lost money
• No previous disciplinary matters
• Limited financial means