Allegations over client-account transfers remain unproven pending the tribunal hearing
Solicitor Fiona Jane Smith has been referred to the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) following a decision by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).
According to details published by the regulator on 29 October 2025, the SRA decided on 22 May 2025 to prosecute Ms Smith before the independent tribunal. The referral follows regulatory findings relating to Ms Smith’s work while practising at MSP Legal Services LLP, whose registered office is Havelock House, 24 Victoria Road, Hartlepool TS26 8DD (Firm ID 464583).
The SRA notice explains that this action forms part of its role in maintaining professional standards within the legal sector. The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal operates independently of the SRA and will reach its own conclusions after assessing all of the evidence, including any evidence submitted by Ms Smith.
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The SRA confirmed that the tribunal has certified that there is a case to answer in respect of allegations “which are or include that Ms Smith misused client money during the period around August 2021 and March 2023.” The notice further states that it is alleged Ms Smith caused and/or allowed a shortage to arise on the firm’s client account and allowed inappropriate transfers to be made, contrary to the requirements of the SRA Solicitors Accounts Rules.
The SRA made clear that these matters remain allegations only. The Tribunal will consider the full evidence before determining whether any professional misconduct occurred and, if so, what sanction, if any, is appropriate. The SRA’s published statement emphasised that the allegations are subject to a hearing before the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal and are as yet unproven.
Under the regulatory process, prosecutions before the SDT are heard in public, and decisions, including any findings and sanctions, are normally published once the tribunal has concluded its deliberations. No timetable for Ms Smith’s hearing has yet been announced.
The Solicitors Regulation Authority is the independent regulator for solicitors and law firms in England and Wales. It investigates potential breaches of professional standards and can refer serious matters to the SDT. The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal, established under the Solicitors Act 1974, is independent of the SRA and has the authority to impose sanctions ranging from fines to suspension or striking off from the roll, depending on its findings.
Until the hearing concludes, Ms Smith remains subject only to allegations that have not been proven. The outcome will depend entirely on the evidence presented and the Tribunal’s independent judgment.