Alerts

Warning: Stamped document misusing the name of Curwens LLP

18 July 2025

A stamped document has been sent to a Building Society, misusing the name of Curwens LLP, supposedly verifying a passport as being a true copy of the original.

What is the scam?

A stamped document has been sent to a Building Society, misusing the name of a genuine firm of solicitors (see below), supposedly verifying a passport as being a true copy of the original.

The document seen by the SRA carries a bogus 'stamp' that misuses the name, branch office address and SRA ID of the genuine firm (see below for details of the genuine firm).

The supposed certification has been signed by 'Lisa Dearman' (see below) falsely claiming to be a 'solicitor'. The genuine firm's branch office fax number has also been provided (see below).

The SRA does not authorise or regulate a solicitor called 'Lisa Dearman'.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine firm of solicitors called Curwens LLP. The genuine firm of Curwens LLP has a branch office at River House, 90 Church Street, EN2 6AR. Its branch office SRA ID is: 8009394 and its genuine fax number is 020 8367 1301.

The genuine firm of Curwens LLP and the genuine Lisa Dearman who is a Partner and Practice Director at the firm have confirmed that they have no connection to the above certification.

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.