Alerts

Warning: Emails from 'Justina Heddell' purporting to be from Birketts LLP

16 June 2026

Emails have been sent from 'Justina Heddell' misusing the name and SRA number of Birketts LLP.

What is the scam?

The SRA has seen emails sent to a firm of solicitors by an individual identifying themselves as 'Justina Heddell' in relation to a conveyancing transaction.

The emails were sent from the email address 'justina.heddell@birkettslaw.com' and quotes the name and SRA number of a genuine firm of solicitors (see below).

The SRA does not authorise or regulate an individual named 'Justina Heddell'

Any business or transaction through the above email address is not undertaken by a firm or individual authorised and regulated by the SRA.

Is there a genuine firm or person?

The SRA authorises and regulates a genuine firm of solicitors called Birketts LLP (SRA ID 441849). The genuine firm uses the email domain @birketts.co.uk, telephone number 01473232300 and their head office address is Providence House, 141-145 Princes Street, Ipswich, IP1 1QJ.

The genuine firm has confirmed that it does not have any connection to the emails referred to in the above alert and it does not employ a member of staff named 'Justina Heddell'.

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.