Darren Hanison, former sole principal of Fortitude Law (“the Firm”), faced 17 allegations of professional misconduct against arising from his handling of numerous medical negligence and product liability claims on behalf of several clients, between 2015 and 2023.

The allegations included dishonesty, misleading clients and other parties, poor service, and serious regulatory breaches. The SRA closed the Firm on 17 May 2023, after an intervention triggered by suspected dishonesty at the Firm.

Mr Hanison admitted allegations 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 12, 14 and 17. He did not introduce any evidence, did not appear at the hearing and was not represented.

The Tribunal reviewed the documentary evidence relied upon by the Applicant and was satisfied that the allegations and the admissions were clear, unequivocal, and properly made. The Tribunal further determined that the evidence supported those admissions. Accordingly, the Tribunal found the admitted allegations, 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 ,7, 9, 12, 14 and 17, which included dishonest conduct, proved on the balance of probabilities.

The Tribunal heard Counsel for the Applicant and reviewed the evidence and found all the remaining allegations, namely 2, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15 and 16, proved on the balance of probabilities and in their entirety, including that Mr Hanisons conduct had been dishonest. There were no exceptional circumstances and accordingly Mr Hanison was struck off the roll of solicitors.