Intervention by Society in Borders legal firm

The Law Society of Scotland has taken over the affairs of a Borders legal practice which currently has no partners able to keep it going.

An intervention notice has been issued in respect of Kelso firm Stormonth Darling WS, the affairs of which are for the time being in the hands of Cullen Kilshaw, which has branches in Galashiels, Melrose and Peebles.

The practice was being run by Craig Wood after his partner Andrew Penman was suspended by the Society in November, but the Society decided to act after Mr Wood was taken ill. 

In a statement the Society said: “The Society has intervened to take control of client files and papers at Stormonth Darling, Kelso, due to the firm’s partner, Craig Wood, becoming ill.

“Andrew Penman was suspended in November and remains suspended until further notice.

“Representatives of Mr Wood and Mr Penman are currently working to develop a solution regarding the future of Stormonth Darling and have put in place a temporary working arrangement with local firm Cullen Kilshaw, which will deal with any pressing client queries.”

Stormonth Darling has been in business in Kelso for more than 150 years.