Richard Lunn, a solicitor from Lincolnshire, has been handed a record fine of £13,836 by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) following a drink-driving conviction. This fine is the largest ever issued by the SRA for such an offence and is approximately 31 times higher than the court’s financial penalty.
Lunn, a director at the firm Haywood Lunn and Allen Ltd, was arrested in May 2022 in Grimsby on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. He pleaded guilty to the charge in November 2022, resulting in a 19-month driving ban, which could be reduced by 19 weeks upon completion of a driver rehabilitation course. Additionally, he was fined £437 and ordered to pay £85 in costs.
Following his arrest and conviction, Lunn promptly notified the SRA. He explained that personal issues had contributed to his actions, which he described as an isolated incident and out of character. The SRA acknowledged Lunn’s insight and remorse but emphasised that he had recklessly disregarded his professional obligations.
The regulator’s new approach to fines, which takes into account a solicitor’s income, has significantly increased the penalties for such offences. Previously, drink-driving fines were around £1,500, but the SRA’s updated guidelines and increased fining powers now allow for much larger penalties. In Lunn’s case, the fine was calculated based on his income, with the potential range set between £11,530 and £35,311.
Last week, another solicitor, Piers King from London firm Farrer & Co, was fined £10,105 and disqualified from driving for 22 months for a similar offence. The SRA’s actions reflect its commitment to enforcing professional standards and holding solicitors accountable for their conduct, both in and out of the workplace.
This significant fine serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of drink-driving and the importance of maintaining high professional standards within the legal profession. The SRA’s rigorous enforcement aims to uphold the integrity of solicitors and protect public trust in the legal system.
About Carl Millar
Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
Getting in contact with Carl and Millars Solicitors is really easy. You can call him FREE on 0800 999 5535, or click here to send a confidential message.
