The exodus from embattled Axiom Ince ramped up this week as the firm fought to freeze the assets of its former managing partner. International firm Mezzle announced yesterday that it had hired Agnes Gay, formerly head of property with Axiom Ince, as well as her entire six-person team.
It is believed to be the biggest single exit from Axiom Ince since three of its directors were suspended by the regulator last month. This week, one of those directors, the firm’s owner Pragnesh Modhwadia, was made subject to a £64m freezing order after the High Court approved an application from the firm.
It emerged during the hearing that Modhwadia used money from the client account to buy stricken firms Ince and Plexus Legal out of administration earlier this year. He and his brother also bought six properties and renovated a further seven.
Axiom Ince continues to operate with the approval of the Solicitors Regulation Authority, but some staff are seeking an escape amid the continued uncertainty. Gay was a key member of the team, with significant experience and what Axiom Ince called an ‘extensive’ client base. She has been a legal adviser for the Birmingham Fujian Chamber of Commerce since 2017.
Mezzle, which has offices in London, Birmingham, Manchester and the UAE, said it has acted swiftly to help minimise any disruption to Gay, her team and her clients.
Chief executive Mel Kang added: ‘We’re ready and excited for Agnes to join our esteemed legal team and can’t wait for everyone to meet our newest additions. We are talking to more talented lawyers and their teams at Axiom Ince and may have some further updates to share.’
Meanwhile, four members of the Axiom Ince team have moved to the London office of RWK Goodman as part of its expansion plans.
Marta Mendiondo has been appointed head of immigration London, with Sudipta Dey arriving as an associate and senior immigration adviser. Martin Pratt has joined RWK Goodman as a partner specialising in advising on employment and partnership law matters, while Holly Freuchen moves across to become a senior associate.
Malcolm Gregory, partner and the firm’s head of employment said: ‘We are delighted to welcome Marta, Martin, Holly and Sudipta to the firm and wish them every success. The team have a leading reputation and will be a huge asset to our employment clients in London and further afield.’
Finally, international firm RPC confirmed earlier this week that James Channo had joined as partner in its London corporate practice. Channo was previously partner and head of corporate with Axiom Ince.
The SRA has told the Gazette there are strict rules on the use of client money, which can be withdrawn only for the purpose it is being held. The regulator declined to comment on the revelations disclosed at this week’s High Court hearing. Modhwadia has said he will defend any claim against him.
Axiom Ince has no connection with the lawers-on-demand specialist Axiom Law.
