SRA issues strict controls after a fee earner used falsified documents to divert funds
The Solicitors Regulation Authority has imposed strict restrictions on a former fee earner after finding he falsified documents and provided false bank details in order to misdirect client funds. The regulator confirmed that Jermaine Strong, whose last known address was in Salford, can no longer work in any regulated legal practice without prior SRA approval.
Strong was employed by KPHP Limited trading as Pabla and Pabla Solicitors from 13 February 2023 until his contract ended on 22 September 2023 for matters unrelated to the later allegations. During his time at the firm, he held responsibility for managing a caseload of road traffic matters involving the recovery of hire charges for companies that had supplied replacement vehicles to non-fault drivers.
After Strong’s departure, his files were transferred to another member of staff. Over several months, issues emerged on four files that he had previously managed. Internal investigations identified discrepancies in payment records and documentation. According to the SRA decision, Strong had supplied false bank details and created falsified material, including fabricated bank statements, letters and telephone attendance notes. These documents had the effect of redirecting client funds away from their intended recipients.
Embed from Getty Images
The SRA found that Strong, although not a solicitor, had been involved in a legal practice in a way that demanded regulatory intervention. His actions were deemed dishonest, and the regulator concluded that it would be undesirable for him to work within any SRA-regulated firm unless specific permission was granted in advance.
A section 43 order under the Solicitors Act 1974 was imposed with effect from the date Strong was notified. This order prevents any solicitor, employee of a solicitor, recognised body or manager from employing or remunerating him in connection with legal work. It also prohibits him from acting as a manager or holding an interest in any recognised body unless the SRA grants written approval.
The order is intended to protect the public and preserve confidence in the profession. The regulator noted that Strong’s behaviour involved dishonesty and therefore posed a significant risk to trust in legal services. The decision does not prevent Strong from obtaining future employment entirely, but it means firms must apply to the SRA and satisfy the regulator that appropriate supervision and safeguards would be in place.
At the time of publication, Strong was listed as being connected with Meade Law Ltd in Bolton, although the decision notice states that the conduct giving rise to regulatory action occurred during his previous employment at Pabla and Pabla Solicitors.
Strong was also ordered to contribute £600 towards the SRA’s investigation costs. No further sanction was reported.
The decision was issued on 5 November 2025 and published on 8 December 2025. It reflects the regulator’s continuing focus on financial integrity and the handling of client money across the sector.