Firm takes action over sleaze story

PARTNERS at Kent-based Stantons were "absolutely horrified" to see their firm featured in in a story about a "sleazy solicitor running a sex agency and selling drugs".

The story in the News of the World alleged that a lawyer called Stephen Harvey worked for Stantons and was involved in prostitution and drugs. It carried a photograph of the firm's offices.

But senior partner Jan Stanton says Stephen Harvey "does not, nor has ever worked for Stantons". The Law Society confirms that Stephen Harvey is not and has never been a qualified solicitor.

The firm has instructed libel specialists Russell Jones & Walker. A Stantons legal executive, Robert Harvey, unconnected to Stephen Harvey, is also instructing RJW.