Mr Rounthwaite was a solicitor of 25 years standing as at the time of the Substantive Hearing. The allegations levelled against him related not only to the administration of his practice, but also non-compliance with professional undertakings, sending dishonest communications in the course of litigation and failure to engage with his regulator. Mr Rounthwaite did not engage in the Tribunal proceedings in any meaningful manner. He did not attend the Substantive Hearing, which proceeded in his absence. All allegations were found proved.