Alerts

Warning: Letter misusing the name of Gardner Leader LLP

5 March 2025

A letter has been sent to a member of the public falsely claiming to be from 'Philip Harvey' of Gardner Leader LLP, in relation to a supposed inheritance matter.

What is the scam?

The SRA has been informed that a member of the public has received a letter from an individual called 'Philip Harvey' (who is described as a 'Senior Associate') misusing the name, telephone number and branch office address of a genuine firm of solicitors (see below).

The letter seen by the SRA informs the recipient about the value of a deceased's estate which is supposedly subject to probate proceedings.

The SRA does not authorise or regulate a solicitor by the name of 'Philip Harvey'.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a firm of solicitors called Gardner Leader LLP. The firm's branch office address is 25 Southampton Buildings, London, WC2A 1AL and its central contact number is 03330 150960.

Gardener Leader LLP has confirmed that it has no connection to the above letter or any individual called 'Philip Harvey'.

What should I do?

When a firm's or individual's identity has been copied exactly (or cloned), due diligence is necessary. If you receive correspondence claiming to be from the above firm(s) or individual(s), or information of a similar nature to that described, you should conduct your own due diligence by checking the authenticity of the correspondence by contacting the law firm directly by reliable and established means. You can contact the SRA to find out if individuals or firms are regulated and authorised by the SRA and verify an individual's or firm's practising details. Other verification methods, such as checking public records (e.g. telephone directories and company records) may be required in other circumstances.