STRUCK OFF FOR GROSS OVERCHARGING

An experienced sole practitioner was struck off for grossly overcharging probate clients. Harold Newell, who had practised for more than 50 years, made excessive fee-related transfers from client to office account across a six-month period without giving written notification of costs incurred. In one instance the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) concluded the settled invoices represented an overcharge of 312 per cent. Newell blamed pressure of work for not dealing with formalities but the SDT ruled his misconduct was of the utmost seriousness; and given with the need to protect the reputation of the legal profession, striking off was the only appropriate sanction. Newell was also ordered to pay £44,118 in costs. 3 July 2019

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