Former Axiom Ince director struck off over amended client invoice
Summary
A former director of Axiom Ince, Toby Richard Matthews, has been struck off after admitting he dishonestly amended a counsel’s fee note to create the misleading impression that a client had received a discount. The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal found he breached multiple SRA Principles and ordered him to pay £5,000 in costs.
Why it matters
While this is a legal profession disciplinary case rather than a property transaction issue, it highlights the importance of accurate fee documentation and client money handling in professional services. Residential property surveyors who work alongside solicitors or manage client-facing billing processes should note the reputational and compliance risks of any misrepresentation.
Key points
- Axiom Ince former director Toby Richard Matthews was struck off by the SDT.
- He admitted altering a counsel’s fee note to suggest a discount that had not been given.
- The tribunal found he breached SRA Principles 2, 4 and 5 and the SRA Code of Conduct.
- The misconduct involved misleading a client and the firm, and using another client’s ledger.
- He was ordered to pay £5,000 in tribunal costs.
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