A barrister has been suspended for at least a year after he failed to pay a fine imposed for providing legal services without a practising certificate.
Tiyani Behanzin, who was called to the bar in 2006, failed to pay a fine of £750 and costs of £585 imposed for disciplinary offences in 2011.
The previous offences related to holding himself out as a barrister in order to provide legal services when he did not have a practising certificate.
The bar disciplinary tribunal also found that Behanzin failed to respond to emails and letters sent over four years by the Bar Standards Board.
The tribunal ordered a 12-month suspension for two charges relating to failing to cooperate with the regulator.
The suspension was extended so that it will remain in place until the outstanding money is paid. Behanzin will not be entitled to hold a practising certificate during this period.
Sara Jagger, director of professional conduct at the BSB, said: ‘Sanctions imposed by the tribunal and correspondence sent by the BSB are to be taken seriously.
‘Mr Behanzin’s refusal to cooperate with his regulator is a serious breach of his duty as a barrister, and the tribunal’s decision to suspend him reflects this.’
