A SOLICITOR could be struck off after an investigation was launched into his business dealings.

Richard Melville Thomson's company was closed down at the end of last month following intervention by the solicitors' watchdog, the Law Society, after serious concerns were raised about the way it was being run.

The society has taken possession of all the papers, money and documents relating to his firm, Thomson and Company, of Varo Terrace, Stockton.

The 57-year-old qualified as a solicitor in 1977 and opened his Stockton practice in 1992, specialising in family law, neighbour disputes, probate and general litigation.

Thousands of clients have been contacted by solicitors Blackett, Hart and Pratt, who are acting as agents, urging them to collect their legal documents and claim any money that the solicitor had been holding for them.

In a letter, Andrew Bain, of the Law Society's intervention and disciplinary unit, says: "If you believe Mr Thomson held money on your behalf please provide details of the sum and any documentary evidence you have in support.

"It is part of the agent's function to carry out a complete examination of the accounts records of Mr Thomson to establish how much money is held on behalf of each client.

"Should this be possible then the agent will distribute all monies held to those people who are entitled to it. If this is not possible, for instance if the accounts records are not adequate, then the money will be sent to the Law Society to hold and clients will need to contact the Society's Compensation Fund to claim any money due."

A spokesman for the Law Society was reluctant to give any details of the investigation until the solicitor had appeared before a disciplinary panel.

He said: "I would anticipate that Mr Thomson will appear before the solicitors disciplinary tribunal to answer allegations about his conduct."

Anyone who was represented by Thomson and Company can contact Blackett, Hart and Pratt, at Kepier House, Belmont Business Park, Durham, or by calling 0191-384 0840.