Alerts

Warning: Stamped document misusing the name of Buckles Solicitors LLP

29 July 2022

A document has been 'stamped' by 'Buckles Solicitors LLP' in relation to a supposed leasehold document.

What is the scam?

An energy supplier has received a document that is purporting to be signed by an individual called 'Michael Rabbett' and stamped by 'Buckles Solicitors LLP' in relation to a supposed leasehold document.

The document misuses the signature of a genuine solicitor and the name, address and SRA identification number of a genuine firm of solicitors (see below).

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine firm of solicitors called Buckles Solicitors LLP. The address is Grant House 101 Bourges Boulevard Peterborough PE1 1NG. The SRA ID is 419965.

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine solicitor called Michael Rabbett who is a member of Buckles Solicitors LLP.

The genuine firm Buckles Solicitors LLP and Michael Rabbett have confirmed they do not have any connection to the 'stamp' or stamped document referred to in the above alert.

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.