Fernandes’ financial misery was later compounded w

Fernandes’ financial misery was later compounded when the tribunal clubbed her with a pnds stlg 5,000 fine.

The solicitor, who broke down in tears frequently during the hearing, sobbed when the decision was announced.

Committee chairman David Faull told her: ‘Forgery is very serious and would normally involve striking off.

‘But your actions were wholl out of character, and these were expenses to which you were entitled.

‘Your conduct, although extremely serious, does not fall within the highest grade of culpability.

‘

Fernandes was also ordered to pay pnds stlg 758.

ends