Firms across Victoria employed and paid a woman $1.4 million despite her allegedly not holding a practising certificate.
Victoria Police detectives from the Financial Crime Squad have charged a 42-year-old woman for allegedly purporting to be a qualified solicitor without a law degree or practising certificate.
It was alleged that the Surrey Hills woman worked at a “number of firms” as a legal counsel since 2019 and received over $1.4 million in wages.
She was arrested on Monday (9 February) morning and charged with five counts of obtaining financial advantage by deception and a prohibition on engaging in legal practice by an unqualified entity.
She has been bailed to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates Court on 16 February.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at Crime Stoppers Victoria.
In addition to criminal charges, the Victorian Legal Services Board + Commissioner (VLSB+C) can ask the Supreme Court for an order that the person or business stop breaking the law.
Failure to comply can amount to contempt of court, with punishments including a fine or imprisonment.
More to come.
