SRA shuts down firm to protect legal and financial interests of clients, appointing a new agent to manage affairs
Thompson & Cooke Ltd, a recognised law firm based at 12 Stamford Street, Stalybridge, SK15 1LA, has been shut down after a decision by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). The closure, which took effect on 28 April 2026, follows a critical intervention by the SRA to protect the interests of the firm’s clients and beneficiaries of any trusts managed by the firm.
The SRA’s intervention was based on concerns over the safety of both current and former clients, as well as the beneficiaries of trusts under the firm’s administration. The decision to intervene was made under paragraph 32(1)(e) of Schedule 2 to the Administration of Justice Act 1985, which grants the SRA the authority to act when it is necessary to protect clients’ legal interests or the interests of those involved in trusts managed by a firm.
The reason for the intervention was rooted in the SRA’s duty to ensure that clients are not left vulnerable or at risk of financial or legal harm. The firm was seen as failing to uphold its responsibilities, prompting the SRA to take action in order to protect those who may have had their legal affairs mismanaged.
Thompson & Cooke Ltd had been a recognised body, a designation that indicates it had been authorised to offer legal services. However, due to the concerns raised, the SRA deemed it essential to intervene to prevent further damage and safeguard the future of affected clients.
Following the intervention, John Owen from Gordons LLP has been appointed as the intervening agent. The intervening agent’s role is to manage the firm’s remaining affairs and ensure that all client and trust matters are handled appropriately moving forward.
This action underscores the SRA’s continued commitment to protecting the public and maintaining the integrity of the legal profession.