An immigration lawyer is facing a lawsuit from her former employers, alleging she poached clients from them. Shereen Shafaatulla, a 42-year-old lawyer with 18 years of experience, had her home searched and documents seized in a legal action brought by Glasgow-based immigration specialists Five Star International. Paper documents, phones, and computers were seized from Shafaatulla’s home, with Five Star claiming ownership of these items.
Five Star is seeking to recover fees that were allegedly charged to its clients by Shafaatulla. In a civil case heard at Glasgow Sheriff Court, Shafaatulla, referred to as the first defender, and an unnamed individual known as the second defender, were accused of tampering with and contaminating evidence during the search conducted at the lawyer’s Glasgow residence on May 17 this year.
Representing Five Star, advocate Eoghainn MacLean stated that various items, including papers, phones, laptops, iPads, and USB sticks, were recovered during the search. It was alleged that Shafaatulla may have concealed or tampered with some of these items, including a second mobile phone believed to have been used to contact one of Five Star’s clients. The lawyer was also accused of potential contempt of court concerning the concealed mobile phone.
Michael Hankinson, representing Shafaatulla, refuted the claims, asserting that the second mobile phone had been handed over to the Commissioner, and any calls made were from her personal device. Five Star declined to provide a statement when contacted by the Sunday Mail for comment on the matter.
The legal dispute highlights the complexities and challenges within the legal profession, particularly concerning client poaching and contractual obligations. As the case unfolds, it raises questions about professional ethics and responsibilities that lawyers hold towards their former employers and clients. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for both Shafaatulla and Five Star International as they navigate through the legal proceedings.