The firm where three directors were removed from practice by the Solicitors Regulation Authority has brought in external auditors to investigate the matter as it continues to trade. 

Axiom Ince (formerly Axiom DWFM) has responded after the SRA intervened into the practising rights of partners Pragnesh Modhwadia, Idnan Liaqat and Shyam Mistry. The action effectively suspends the trio, who were still listed as directors of the company, from being able to work as solicitors.

The regulator said Modhwadia, the former managing partner, was subject to intervention on the basis of suspected dishonesty and a failure to comply with Solicitors Act rules. Mistry, head of personal injury and medical negligence, and Liaqat, who was head of commercial, investment and residential property, were suspected of breaching solicitor rules.

Axiom Ince said today that the SRA has confirmed it can continue to operate normal business practices.

A spokesperson added: ‘Along with our internal inquiries, we have retained the services of the leading accountancy practice BDO, which is conducting a thorough and comprehensive investigation and review.’

In the past five months, Axiom has bought Plexus Legal and the Ince Group through pre-pack administration deals, saving hundreds of jobs in the process.