“ I can’t thank Jonathan enough having received notification that no action is to be taken against me by the SRA. From the first phone call with Jonathan, I felt instantly calmer, reassured and that my career was in safe hands. His knowledge and experience is outstanding. His advice was clear throughout and undoubtedly his presence at my SRA interview made a significant difference in bringing to matters to a close at an early stage. Jonathan was recommended to me and in turn, I cannot recommend him highly enough”
Solicitor
“Like all professionals I am proud of my achievements and the role that I play in the lives of my clients yet I felt that all of that could have been destroyed on the day that I received the letter from the SRA advising me that an historic event in my career was being investigated. Upon speaking to a former colleague and friend, Jonathan Goodwin was recommended to me as THE person to speak to. I called Jon’s office and even though it was late in the working day I was able to speak to someone who arranged for Jon to call me. The extreme anxiety that I felt at this time was allayed when speaking to Jon because of his calmness, professionalism and breadth of knowledge about the process and the mind-set of the SRA. The thought of the ongoing investigation was never far away but I felt that I had taken back control of the situation by instructing Jon. His reply to the SRA on my behalf was extremely well crafted and was presented in such a way as to lead them to a natural conclusion. My case, I realise, could have gone either way and everything in my life could have changed. Having Jon on my side made a enormous difference to the outcome of the investigation and I shall remain extremely grateful to him for everything that he has done for me. If you find yourself in this situation please do call Jon.”
Solicitor
“I would like to thank you for your expertise and assistance in resolving issues raised by the SRA with a positive outcome for ourselves . Your professionalism and support was really appreciated at that difficult time and I would not hesitate to recommend you to anyone facing an SRA investigation . Your service was Invaluable.”
Solicitor
“I am very impressed with Jonathan’s resolution of my case, without a hearing, by way of an agreed outcome and a fine, in an instance where I had a criminal record and was really looking at a much more severe sanction from my regulator.
Jonathan is in a unique position of having also worked for the SRA, before switching sides, during his 25 years’ in practice.
I have Jonathan to thank for quite frankly saving my chosen career, a career I worked hard to build and which was under threat for over 15 months, until the resolution finally came.
Jonathan is a straight-talker, there’s no ton of legalese or lengthy advise to ponder, he gives it to you straight, he lets you understand that you are under no illusions that the situation is dire, but he will do his best, using his experience and contacts, to get the best outcome possible under the circumstances, which I must admit is exactly what happened in my case, just as I was beginning to lose hope.
Jonathan thinks strategically and knows the regulator rules inside-out (in my case, he was, effectively, telling the tribunal what their own rules are, that’s how well-versed he is) and is realistic about what negotiations and outcomes can be achieved in the circumstances.
He also offers value for money – in that the fees I paid him for my case were a fraction of what was quoted to me by another law firm.
All in all, I have Jonathan to thank for me remaining in my chosen profession and I cannot recommend him enough to anybody who finds themselves in trouble with the SRA (or other regulatory bodies).”
Solicitor
“Regulatory law, particularly in relation to SRA issues, is a very challenging battlefield and it is most reassuring to have an ally who enjoys formidable experience and ability in this highly specialised area. Jon personifies “outcomes focused” in his solution driven approach, delivering excellent results by reason of his commanding presence and presentation. He is a master of the brief, well communicated in his engagement, creating an immediate incentive for sensible dialogue and satisfactory, cost-effective , resolution.”
Solicitor
“Upon being contacted by the SRA just before close of business on the Thursday before an Easter Bank Holiday weekend, I was left in a very worried and anxious state with, seemingly, nowhere to turn until the following Tuesday at the earliest. I immediately contacted a number of solicitors by email with a view to obtaining some advice. Not only was Jon good enough to respond to me out of working hours over a bank holiday weekend and schedule a call for Good Friday (no less!), he also put my mind instantly at rest.
Jon has an extremely practical and reassuring approach which is greatly needed when being faced with the enormous pressure of potentially losing one’s career and livelihood. Jon was cool, calm and collected and left me feeling positive after our first conversation; something that I wouldn’t have thought was at all possible at the time.
Jon reviewed the notification from the SRA and proceeded to discuss with me a way forward drawing on an impressively wide and detailed knowledge of the SRA’s practices and procedures as well as an expert command of both law and strategy. I was presented with an immediate plan and some contingencies depending on how the SRA decided to play things.
The SRA were initially reluctant to disclose information to us but Jon not only managed to obtain this from them, he also took the time to really get to grips with my background, the situation giving rise to the investigation and then to prepare a detailed response setting out my position and the basis on which we opposed the SRA’s continuing investigation. Jon’s representations led to a very quick dismissal by the SRA and a discontinuance of their investigation.
I firmly believe that it was these representations which drew on my background, the context of the situation and an extraordinary combination of SRA guidance, policy and case law that won the day; none of which I believe could have been as effectively put together if it weren’t for Jon’s great care and meticulous dedication in fully understanding all aspects of the matter.
This was an extremely horrible time for me but Jon was the consummate professional and made me feel reassured and supported every step of the way. The fact that he always took the time to respond either by telephone or email could not have been appreciated more; in a situation like this it is often just the reassurance of a brief response that stops you from losing your thread and Jon was enormously reliable and reassuring in that regard (and all others too!). If I were ever to find myself in this situation or a similar one in the future, Jon would be my first call.
I cannot thank Jon enough for what he did for me and I cannot recommend his service enough to any and all who might need it. The reviews all proved true and the investment was definitely worth it!”
Retired Licensed Conveyancer
“I carried out extensive research on an appropriate solicitor for me at a very stressful time. I identified Jonathan Goodwin as ideal in the circumstances. I was not disappointed!
Jonathan was pragmatic, proactive and thorough. An excellent adviser to have on your side”
Solicitor
“We found ourselves in a potentially difficult situation with the RICS following a complaint that had been raised against us that had the potential to cause serious issues for the firm. Jonathan has a clear understanding of disciplinary procedures and used his experience to guide myself and the company through the initial investigation. He drafted a response on our behalf that dealt with the important issues and resulted in the RICS concluding that we did not have a case to answer. I would recommend him to other Survey Firms who find themselves having to deal with the RICS and will not hesitate to use him again if the need should arise, although I sincerely hope we never have cause to.”
Surveyor
“When I first contacted Jonathan solely on account of his impressive experience, I was a bag of nerves and consumed by worry. Prior to calling Jonathan’s firm, I had called 2 other solicitors on this same matter.
Jon called back promptly and what followed gave me such confidence, that I had someone who not only was interested in fighting my corner, but left me with no doubt that he was extremely competent and knew his stuff. His explanation of the procedure and rules was second to none. He followed our initial telephone conversation with emails and kept me updated throughout the engagement.
I had prior to speaking with Jon thought a satisfactory resolution seemed nigh on impossible.
Not only was he able put my case across to the SRA in a professional but empathetic manner, he offered options and all the re-assurance needed. His professional, detailed and strong representation left me in no doubt of the strength of his argument. The SRA closed the matter without further action.
To say I am a satisfied client is to say the least. Jon is the man you need on your side when you are under SRA investigation.
I are eternally grateful for his service and I recommend Jon without reservation any day.”
Solicitor
“I was in the unfortunate position to require the services of Jonathan Goodwin following a surprise visit from the SRA. I can honestly say that the past 3 years have been the worst profession experience of my life having practised as a solicitor, with an unblemished record, for over 20 years. Whilst I appreciate, as a profession, we have to have a regulator, unfortunately the way that the SRA treats solicitors and conducts their investigations is appalling. Throughout the investigation I was kept completely in the dark by the SRA and made to feel like a criminal. Throughout this whole process Jonathan Goodwin has been exceptional, with his non- judgmental approach and wealth of knowledge and experience. With his help we were able to provide a robust defence to the allegations which resulted in the best possible outcome all round. There is no doubt in my mind that without Jonathan’s help I would have been facing a 5 day hearing in the SDT. I also believe that when the SRA see Jonathan’s name on the case they do take note.
Having spent his entire career dealing with SRA prosecutions, there is very little that he hasn’t dealt with both in and out of the SDT, he really is a true expert in the field. I cannot thank Jonathan enough for all his help and reassurance during this extremely difficult time.”
Solicitor
“SRA investigations are a traumatic time – Jon’s advice and support was direct, concise and professional he’s an expert in his field and I can’t thank him enough.”
Solicitor
Thank you so much Jonathan. I am waking up to the best news since this issue started some years ago now.
We couldn’t have done it without you. Your advice was excellent, you managed our expectations well but at the same time ensured we never lost hope. We were impressed with your knowledge of not only the technical aspects of our case but also the inner workings of the the SRA. It was invaluable to have you on our side. Your response to the SRA on our behalf was excellently drafted with the appropriate case law to back up our argument. You managed to turn round the draft response very quickly. We are so grateful to you. Thank you once again.”
Solicitor
“Dear Jonathan,
I was extremely anxious about the SDT hearing but had the very great fortune of you accepting instructions to represent me at the two day hearing. As soon as I spoke with you on the phone and in person I knew straight away that I was in good hands but more than that your empathy meant a lot to me. As a gamekeeper turned poacher (if you allow) it was a great comfort to me that you were familiar with the likely SRA tactics and able to point out their errors. Your knowledge and expertise of the rules, regulations and case law, it very soon became apparent, is second to none. Your approach in trying to negotiate an agreed outcome and do away with the hearing, although rejected on the part of the SRA, was much appreciated as I would much rather not have had to give evidence.
Your tactics on day one to go on the offensive and to try to knock out the three allegations was impressive and while it succeeded in knocking out one and your excellent advocacy very nearly succeeded in knocking out the other two we were stymied by the Tribunal bench. At that point I confess I was deflated but with your encouragement you made me believe that we still had good arguments. Your tactic to call me to give evidence straightaway was inspired and worked as, in my opinion, the cross examination by the SRA Advocate was neither very detailed or aggressive. Whereas your advocacy was exceptional, at one point you even got the SRA barrister to agree to your way of thinking! After a very detailed summing up by you which really left the Tribunal with no room to manoeuvre towards a decision against me we won and all allegations were dismissed. A really exceptional result. Thank you!
You explained that the SRA no longer instructs you. Well all I can say is more fool them and good luck to professionals who need really exceptional representation. Without being cheeky, your name really says it all; Goodwin!
I would not have the slightest hesitation in recommending your services to any professional and am already spreading the news of your talent.
Thank you again Jon for all you did for me. Very best wishes for the future.”
“From the very first conversation with Jonathan, I was imbued with confidence, in light of his deep expertise and excellent client manor. He grasped the complex issues swiftly and immediately provided a sensible strategic plan to tackle the issues. I also found he was both amenable and responsive, and his final drafting second to none. I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending his services, given his superior expertise in this field”.
Solicitor.
“Having had to instruct Jonathan for a second time I have found him to be compassionate, forthright and effective. His advice is clear and precise even when the matter seems illogical and his effective drafting has meant the matter has been dealt with, with minimum fuss and achieving the desired outcome efficiently and at the first time of asking. I would have no hesitation in recommending Jonathan, a definite Ace to have up your sleeve!”
Legal Executive.
“Jonathan is a very experienced solicitor with a vast knowledge of procedural law in terms of handling complaints. I contacted Jonathan when a complaint was made against me by a former client who was unhappy that I would not perform certain ‘reserved activities’ which I was not legally qualified nor equipped to do. Due to this being my first complaint, and having severe anxiety over the thought of losing my credibility with the organisations I belonged too, I contacted Jonathan who prepared a reply which found me fully exonerated from the false allegations posed against me. Jonathan’s pricing is very reasonable and he was very understanding always at the other end of the phone or email.
Although this complaint was not the biggest, Jonathan handled it professionally and executed a reply in a very timely manner. If another complaint was ever to arise I would instruct Jonathan straight away!”
Paralegal
“I have received the decision that confirms the exceptional result you have achieved for me.
I write to you to express my gratitude for such a high quality of your professional involvement, for your outstanding devotion to me, your client, the speed with which you intervened and obtained results and for the incomparable and unforeseen outcome.
Being a lawyer myself, I perfectly understand that in your person I had chosen the best of the best!”
Registered Foreign Lawyer.
“Instructing Jon was one of the best investments I have ever made. After seeing Jon in action in the SDT, particularly his cross examination of the witnesses, I stand by that comment.
In terms of his Advocacy and Cross examination, we have all see Courtroom dramas on television where an advocate cross examines a witness where the effect is theatrical and explosive. Jon’s cross examination during my case can only be described in the same way. During cross examination Jon remained calm, he was measured yet at the same time his cross examination of the witnesses for the SRA had the same theatrical and explosive effect that Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson’s performance had in the famous movie A few Good Men.
The witnesses were not credible. Jon’s cross examination was well planned, well prepared and his approach had the effect of eliciting information and admissions from the witness. He had the ability to not only obtain the truth from them but also have them make admissions that they were untruthful. I have been doing court work for nearly 15 years; I have never seen an advocate with cross examination skills akin to Jon’s. I have never seen a trial in person which could have been part of a Hollywood movie. The result was that after Cross examination of the witnesses and obtaining admissions from them, Jon was able to make an application of No Case to Answer and the Tribunal dismissed 11 allegations of misconduct with 5 allegations of dishonesty. I am so pleased as the allegations could have ended my career. Fortunately I can now look to the future having had my name cleared and been vindicated of the allegations which were false and untrue. I doubt a lesser experienced advocate than Jon could have obtained the same result. I know I could not have and I consider myself to be reasonably skilled.
Solicitors wanting to advance their careers can literally spend hundreds and thousands on attending Advocacy Courses. After seeing Jon in action, my advice, save your money on training courses, find out when Jon is going to be in Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal, go along to sit in public gallery and watch him in action, you will learn a lot and save a fortune. I may have been defending my name and my career, and I am hopeful I can get back to court work soon, I have been making notes based on Jon’s performance for next time I represent a client in court and next time I have an opportunity to cross examine, although it will take years to get to the level of Jon’s advocacy skills.”
Solicitor.
“Having had the threat of an SRA investigation hanging over my head for 2 years I must reflect that the calm professionalism and knowledge of Jon has given me comfort and reassurance in a very testing period of my life. Despite being a solicitor of over twenty years I must reflect that I could not have written such well drafted and detailed letters as Jon did. Whilst I hope never to require Jon’s expertise again, I would not hesitate to recommend his services to anyone and everyone. I massive sincere appreciation to you for the well-reasoned method of dealing with such wide reaching investigations and achieving an excellent outcome of no further action”.
Solicitor
“I would just like to reiterate my sincere gratitude for all the strategic guidance, reassurances, plain talking and speed of response that you afforded me.
The past few weeks have been an incredibly worrying time for me both professionally and personally and I am delighted with the outcome of your discussions with RICS, which I could not have achieved without you or your knowledge of relevant caselaw, rules and regulations. Because of your involvement, I can now move on with my life and career!
I genuinely would not hesitate to recommend you to any other chartered surveyor that might be facing disciplinary action by the RICS.
Many thanks and all the very best to you.”
Surveyor