The Law Society recently claimed another success in its crackdown on bogus solicitors.

South Western Magistrates Court, South West London, fined James Joseph for using a fake letterhead printed with the name of a fake solicitor’s firm.

James Joseph of Wandsworth was convicted on three counts of pretending to be a solicitor, contrary to section 21 of the Solicitors Act 1974.

Joseph had concocted a letterhead with the bogus firm, "James Joseph & Co Solicitors" of Cicada Road, Wandsworth, London SW18. Joseph is not and has never been a solicitor, nor is the solicitors firm real.

The Law Society was alerted by a multi-media company based at Elstree who had received letters from him.

Joseph was fined £750 on each count and was ordered to pay £1,000 towards costs, totalling £3,250.

Law Society President, Michael Napier, said: "This successful prosecution by the Law Society highlights how important the work of our investigation team is, to ensure the public and businesses are protected from bogus solicitors."