Former BLP partner faces disciplinary tribunal

Veneik is accused of ­failing to act in the best interests of clients in ­commercial conveyancing transactions; misusing client money; utilising client money for the benefit of other clients; and failing to comply with an undertaking. A hearing date has not yet been set.

The SRA is being represented by sole practitioner and solicitor-advocate David Barton. An SRA spokesperson said: “We’ve investigated his conduct to the stage that we’re satisfied that there are allegations that need to be investigated further.”

The SDT has the power to reprimand Veneik, ­suspend him definitely or indefinitely, strike him off the solicitors’ roll and/or fine him £5,000 per allegation.

Veneik has appointed Derek Bambury, head of business and professional risk at Browne Jacobson, to advise him.

Veneik resigned from BLP in January 2008. His former firm declined to comment. Bambury did not return calls for comment.