Solicitor Richard Walker faces fraud charges over estate property purchase

A solicitor is facing five counts of fraud following allegations regarding the purchase of a 17th-century listed property. Richard Walker, 54, is accused of purchasing the house, known as Beestons, for £775,000—an amount significantly lower than a valuation recommending a £1 million marketing price—before attempting to sell it for £1.3 million shortly after.

The prosecution alleges Walker attempted to make a £500,000 profit, failed to pay rent while residing at the property, charged unnecessary building works to the estate he was administering, and overcharged for legal services.

In defense, counsel Matthew Radstone argued that the purchase was lawful and that Walker had consulted the Solicitors Regulation Authority, which reportedly advised there was no conflict of interest. The defense maintains the property was sold for a reasonable price and that building works were necessary to improve value and meet legal requirements.