Jennifer Hallam, a former solicitor, has been reinstated 22 years after being struck off due to misconduct linked to domestic abuse.
- The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal praised Hallam’s courage and dedication during her application for reinstatement.
- Hallam’s misconduct in 2002 coincided with severe personal circumstances that were not disclosed at the time.
- The tribunal’s decision highlights the importance of openly communicating personal issues to professional regulators.
- Hallam has since built a career in academia and agreed to certain practising restrictions upon her return.
Jennifer Hallam, a former solicitor who faced a professional strike-off over two decades ago, has been successfully reinstated into the profession. Her reinstatement came after the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal acknowledged the influence of domestic abuse on her past misconduct.
In her 2002 hearing, Hallam did not present her then ongoing ordeal of ‘unrelenting’ domestic abuse as a potential mitigating factor. At the time, preoccupied with protecting her three children and herself from an abusive partner, she did not notify the regulatory bodies of her circumstances.
The tribunal was informed that Hallam was sanctioned following a five-figure loan received from a client during her personal turmoil, which required police intervention. Consequently, Hallam and her family were forced to relocate frequently to escape her partner, who regularly violated legal protections such as injunctions.
Reflecting on the situation, Hallam expressed remorse for not contacting the Law Society amid her adversities, acknowledging her incapacitation in making informed decisions regarding the loan.
Since her disbarment, Hallam has redirected her career towards academia, contributing as a law educator and external examiner at universities. Her journey back to legal practice has been arduous, yet has granted her profound empathy for individuals enduring similar situations.
The tribunal recognised her commendable efforts in overcoming past challenges and restoring her professional integrity, enabling her return to legal practice. They highlighted the need for open communication with regulators for those facing significant personal issues, emphasising the potential positive impact on case assessments.
The Solicitors Regulation Authority did not object to her application but recommended conditions on her reinstated practising certificate, which Hallam accepted without opposition. In accordance with the procedure, Hallam agreed to cover the costs amounting to £4,500.
The tribunal’s decision underlines the necessity of transparent communication with professional regulators during personal crises.
