Two solicitors have faced significant penalties for admitting to shortcomings in client care.
- Zachariah Reynolds and Alexa Kordowicz, formerly of a now-closed London firm, were fined by the SRA.
- The fines were issued due to failure in obtaining clear instructions and providing a client care letter.
- Both professionals expressed remorse and vowed to improve their practices going forward.
- The case highlights the importance of adhering to regulatory obligations in legal practice.
In a notable case, two solicitors, Zachariah Reynolds and Alexa Kordowicz, have been fined more than £30,000 collectively by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Both individuals admitted to significant failures in managing client interactions, particularly regarding a property loan agreement. The SRA’s decision underscores the critical nature of clear client communication in legal practices.
Zachariah Reynolds, who was a partner at the London firm Child & Child Ltd, now operating under the name Allium Law, admitted his responsibility in failing to secure clear instructions from the clients involved. His actions were scrutinised due to the potential conflict of interest in the property transaction, which was later deemed not in the clients’ best interests.
Reynolds expressed regret, acknowledging his ‘reckless disregard’ for the risks and his regulatory responsibilities. He was fined £21,287 and pledged to adopt better working practices in the future, aiming to ensure transparency and proper documentation in client dealings.
Alexa Kordowicz, less experienced yet equally culpable, received a fine of £9,359. Her role in the case involved acting on guidance from a senior colleague, which she cited in her defence. Despite this, the SRA attributed her actions to a lack of due diligence. She has committed to enhancing her professional approach, particularly in securing client instructions.
Both solicitors cooperated fully during the investigation and have shown a willingness to reform their practices. This case serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of rigorous compliance with legal industry standards to avoid significant financial penalties and professional scrutiny.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vital role compliance plays in maintaining the integrity of legal practice.
