Courts / Wicklow / Report

'Alarm bell' when different firms contacted about same property, witness tells Michael Lynn trial

Date
2022-03-30
Stage
Trial
Primary locality
Wicklow
County
Wicklow

Summary

During his trial for the alleged theft of about €27 million from seven banks, Michael Lynn's former solicitor, Fiona McAleenan, testified that she first became aware of the scheme in August 2007 when she received two separate faxes from different law firms representing two banks, both referring to the same properties. She said the second fax alarmed her and she immediately sought advice from a friend who recommended a solicitor. Following that advice, she contacted the Law Society, which asked her questions suggesting a possible mistake or misunderstanding. The Society advised her to leave the practice, and she resigned on 10 September 2007. McAleenan also admitted signing undertakings for properties without having carried out the conveyancing work, relying on colleagues and trusting Michael Lynn and Liz Doyle. She claimed she had not questioned the documents because she trusted them. The trial, before Judge Martin Nolan and a jury, continues with 21 counts of theft.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: 'Alarm bell' when different firms contacted about same property, witness tells Michael Lynn trial. Procedural stage: trial

When:

Why: Ms Doyle told the trial she never discussed this with Ms McAleenan because Mr Lynn had said he would speak with Ms McAleenan about it. CNI source report

Case subjects

Unnamed accused

Accused

Places mentioned

Residence
Secondary Mention

Topics

Stage Trial Theft

Related court reports

Read the original CNI report

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