How's this for a conflict of interest -

I'm helping cl with a large overpayments of IB, IS, PC, HB and CTB. Have appealed against decisions, but lots of hold ups.

In the meantime DWP decide to prosecute for benefit fraud. I advise cl that needs a solicitor as this is a criminal rather that civil matter. Goes to see a solicitor - spends 1-2 hours with them and arranges to meet them at the court on the day of the hearing.

Cl goes to the court, waits around for ages until the usher comes out and informs him that there's a problem. His solicitor forgot that he was already acting for the prosecution!!

Complain to the Solicitors Regulatory Authority if you haven't already. This looks like a serious breach of conduct.

I do hope the solicitor stood down and di not act at all in the case. If he did act, and the decision was adverse to your client, there should be perfect grounds for appeal.

and one has to wonder whether the prosecution can proceed at all in the circumstances, since no doubt they now have the benefit of what the client told the solicitor....

in the meantime, you will be trying to get it all to tribunal ASAP?