SRA shuts down three immigration firms

In a press release on 31 July, the SRA said that, following an intervention by Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary Alex Chalk, it had closed down Rashid & Rashid in South Wimbledon, Kingswright Solicitors Birmingham, and Lincoln Lawrence in Hounslow.

"Closing a firm down, known as an intervention, means we have stopped the firm from operating, taken possession of all documents and papers held by the firm, and taken possession of all money held by the firm (including clients' money)," the press release said.

The SRA also ssued a Section 43 order against VP Lingajothy, formerly of Duncan Ellis Solicitors, which prevents him from working in another firm without the SRA's permission.

"We will now investigate further the issues raised that have led to this intervention to see if any additional action is necessary. At this stage of our work, no further details can be disclosed," the SRA said.