Alerts

Warning: Patrick Lopes falsely claiming to be a solicitor

19 April 2024

An individual identified as 'Patrick Lopes' is falsely claiming to be a retired solicitor.

What is the scam?

An individual who is purporting to be 'Patrick Lopes' is falsely claiming to be a retired solicitor who can assist the public with debt collection matters.

Any business or transaction through the email address of patrick.rio1@live.com, telephone number 07368382802 or address Flat 13, Blunden Court, Fulham, London SW1 1PA is not undertaken by a firm or individual who is authorised and regulated by the SRA.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA does not authorise any solicitor by the name of Patrick Lopes.

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.