Tom Bedford

Tom specialises in defending solicitors from claims and in the context of regulatory proceedings brought by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

He has over 10 years’ experience advising clients across a range of sectors but he predominantly acts for solicitors, law firms and their Insurers. During this time Tom has completed two secondments with leading professional indemnity Insurers in the City of London.

Tom also has experience in defending surveyors and property professionals from claims.

In addition, Tom regularly writes and contributes to articles and podcasts on issues affecting the legal profession.

Relevant experience includes:

• Advising a law firm and Insurers following the discovery of one of its partners having forged documents and stolen from clients. This included successful applications for a freezing injunction, Norwich Pharmacal Orders and committal, as well as the management of the claims which followed.
• Advising a law firm and its Insurers following an SRA investigation into one of the firm’s partners, as well as advising on claims arising from that partner’s misconduct and further steps to recover misappropriated client monies.
• Defending firms facing claims arising from failed investment schemes, including ‘buyer-funded’ developments. Tom is recognised for handling complex disputes often involving many claimants.
• Acting for a boutique west-end firm on a multimillion pound arising from advice tendered in the course of a dispute following a corporate transaction.
• Acting for solicitors faced with professional disciplinary proceedings and helping them to achieve settlement or alternative at the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal. Tom has advised on a number of cases involving breaches of the Accounts Rules, the Code of Conduct and cases involving mental health.
• Advising firms who have been the subject of cyber fraud and defending claims arising as a result.
• Acting in professional disciplinary matters and claims arising out of the same subject matter simultaneously.

Tom also advises on matters relating to policy coverage, including disputes between Insurers.

Endorsements

Tom is described in Legal 500 as “well-organised and hardworking” and he is ranked as a “next generation partner”.

He is a member of the Association of Regulatory and Disciplinary Lawyers.