Gambling Addict Attorney Who Conned Thousands Disbarred

An disgraced attorney who stole thousands from clients to fund his gambling addiction has been disbarred.

David Nightingale, 35, was found guilty of professional misconduct while working  for Airdrie-based McAfee Solicitors

He is alleged to have told clients facing prosecution that handing money over to him could see them treated more favourably by a sheriff.

At Hamilton Sheriff Court in 2014 he admitted pocketing £12,500 from clients and his boss to fund a gambling addiction which saw him run up a £15,000 debt.

Following a disciplinary hearing, Scottish Discipline Tribuna (SSDT)l chairman Nicholas Whyte said: "The tribunal was satisfied that the respondent's behaviour was serious and reprehensible and met the test for professional misconduct.

"Solicitors belong to a profession which requires high standards of ethical conduct. Members of the public must have confidence that solicitors are trustworthy and honest and that their integrity is beyond question."

Ms Whyte continued: "The tribunal considered the letter written by the respondent and noted his remorse and insight into the seriousness of his conduct.

"However the tribunal considered that the course of conduct demonstrated that he was not a fit and proper person to be a solicitor."

- Jagajeet Chiba, Gambling911.com