Matthew Podger, who received two cautions for cocaine possession, has had restrictions removed
Matthew Podger, a solicitor who was twice cautioned for cocaine possession, has successfully had conditions placed on his right to practice lifted, following a ruling by the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT). The tribunal was impressed by his genuine remorse and the significant personal and professional changes he had made since his earlier cautions.
Podger, who was admitted as a solicitor on 15 March 2013, first received a police caution for possession of cocaine on 27 April 2014. He immediately reported the caution to his employer and the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), which issued a letter of advice but took no further action. However, in 2018, Podger was cautioned again for a similar offence and failed to disclose the second caution to his employer, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP (CGSH), or the SRA.
The second caution came amidst personal and professional pressures, including marital difficulties, which Podger cited as the reason for his failure to disclose it. The existence of the second caution was only revealed when CGSH received an anonymous letter in 2019, leading to Podger’s suspension and resignation from the firm.
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In May 2020, a tribunal imposed a one-year suspension and indefinite conditions on his practising certificate. These conditions included requirements for regular drug testing and full disclosure of his past conduct.
In a recent decision, Podger convinced the SDT to lift the conditions on his right to practice. The tribunal was persuaded by his demonstrated rehabilitation and full compliance with all conditions, including passing quarterly drug tests and undergoing regular occupational health assessments. Podger’s employer, HCR Legal LLP, where he returned to work as a senior associate in May 2023, also expressed full support for him, aware of his background.
The SDT noted that Podger had acknowledged his past mistakes, reflected on his conduct, and demonstrated genuine remorse. His personal circumstances, particularly his family life and the responsibilities now resting upon him, had significantly improved, according to the tribunal.
The ruling marks a positive turn in Podger’s career, allowing him to continue practising without the restrictions that had previously been imposed. The SDT found Podger to be a credible witness and recognised the progress he had made in addressing his past behaviour.