By David Young-
A former legal secretary at Stockport firm Harvey Roberts, has been banned from working in the solicitors’ profession after her involvement in a county lines drug operation.
Her actions brought the legal profession to disrepute.
An order under section 43 of the Solicitors Act 1974 has been imposed, restricting Burns from future employment in regulated firms without explicit permission from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).
Ms. Burns, who had previously worked in various roles supporting legal services, was convicted in May 2023 for her participation in a county lines gang alongside her former partner, Jamie Upton, and his associate, Kade Joyson.
The trio was found guilty of exploiting three 16-year-old boys to sell crack cocaine and heroin, involving them in dangerous activities along the M62 corridor between Tameside and Hull.
During the trial, it was revealed that Burns was fully aware of the illegal operations and actively facilitated drug dealing on multiple occasions.
She drove her co-accused to conduct drug transactions and transported a minor for the purpose of selling drugs, according to statements provided by the SRA.
While Upton, identified as the ringleader, received a sentence of eight years and three months for various drug-related charges, including possession with intent to supply, Burns received a suspended two-year imprisonment sentence, along with rehabilitation and community service requirements.
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) emphasized the severity of Burns’ actions, noting that her role as a legal secretary involved handling sensitive and confidential information, preparing court documents, and corresponding with clients.
The regulator highlighted the importance of integrity and public trust in legal services, asserting that allowing someone with Burns’ criminal record to continue in such a role would diminish public confidence in the profession.
It is not the first time professionals in the legal profession have been caught meddling in drugs.
Only last year, top barrister, Henry Hendron was jailed for 14 months after attempting to buy drugs from clients he had represented in court.