At Wainwright & Cummins Solicitors LLP, we understand that behind every legal case is a person whose life, home and future may depend on the outcome. A recent success for our Housing and Litigation team perfectly demonstrates the difference experienced legal representation can make.
Our client, an Iranian national, found himself at the centre of a criminal investigation concerning allegations of unlawful subletting of his council property. The investigation began with an invitation to attend an interview under caution at Lambeth Town Hall.
Initially, our Criminal Defence Department, led by Marvin Roberts, represented the client during the interview process. Understandably, English was not our client's first language and, despite his best efforts, he was not sufficiently confident to proceed without an interpreter. The interview was therefore postponed to ensure that he could fully understand the allegations and participate fairly.
Unfortunately, when the interview was rearranged, the interpreter provided was unable to communicate effectively in English, meaning the interview had to be abandoned for a second time.
Throughout this process, our client was informed that no possession proceedings would be pursued by the local authority until the criminal investigation had concluded. Relying on that assurance, he believed his tenancy remained secure while the investigation continued.
However, despite those assurances, Lambeth Council proceeded to obtain a possession order against him.
Faced with the prospect of losing his home, our client was referred internally to the head of our housing department Sebastian Peattie, who immediately took action to protect his position.
An urgent application was made to the County Court seeking to have the possession order set aside and requesting permission to file a full Defence to the possession proceedings. Following a contested hearing, the court agreed, allowing the possession order to be overturned and giving our client the opportunity to defend the claim properly.
Over the following weeks, our Housing team meticulously prepared the case for trial. Six witnesses attended court to give evidence, including our client, while a further witness joined remotely via video link due to mobility difficulties.
When the matter came before the court, the strength of the defence case quickly became apparent. Within just ten minutes of the hearing commencing, counsel representing Lambeth Council requested an adjournment to discuss settlement.
Following negotiations outside the courtroom, the Council agreed to dismiss the possession claim entirely and to pay our client's legal costs, subject to detailed assessment.
For our client, this was far more than simply winning a legal dispute.
The successful outcome meant that he was able to remain in his home and continue with his long-term plans for the future. With the possession proceedings brought to an end, his Right to Buy application can now proceed, giving him the opportunity to purchase the property he has called home. Even more importantly, he and his fiancée can now move forward with their plans to marry and begin their life together without the uncertainty that had overshadowed them for so long.
This case demonstrates the value of having a full-service law firm working together across departments. From expert criminal defence representation to determined civil litigation, our solicitors worked seamlessly to protect our client's rights at every stage.
At Wainwright & Cummins Solicitors LLP, we believe that legal representation should do more than resolve disputes-it should help people rebuild their lives, protect what matters most and secure a better future.
If you are facing housing issues, criminal investigations or any legal matter affecting your home or your future, our experienced team is here to help.
📧 Email: info@wainwrightcummins.co.uk
📞 Telephone: 0207 737 9330
Wainwright & Cummins Solicitors LLP - Protecting Homes. Defending Rights. Changing Lives.
