Louise Sutherland, a former solicitor employed by Graeme Murray & Co Solicitors in Aberdeen, has pled guilty to a charge of embezzlement before Aberdeen Sheriff Court.
The offence dates back to 2013, where it was discovered by the firm’s accountants that Ms Sutherland had prepared dozens of fake invoices for non-existent work. In doing so, she had embezzled over £12,500 from clients’ accounts.
Admitting the offence, Ms Sutherland claimed that she had embezzled the funds out of desperation, as her husband’s business was failing.
Ms Sutherland was struck off as a solicitor by the Law Society of Scotland. The matter was subsequently referred to the police.
Following her plea of guilty, Sheriff Hodge deferred sentencing in order for a Criminal Justice and Social Work Report to be obtained.