A solicitor who misappropriates trust funds intended for counsel, makes false statements to the regulatory body, and persistently fails to meet taxation and superannuation obligations will be struck off the roll, notwithstanding financial difficulties. Financial stress explains but does not excuse professional misconduct, and the ethical obligation to pay counsel fees is not diminished by the modern statutory enforceability of those fees. A practitioner's failure to appear, comply with court directions, or demonstrate insight into misconduct weighs heavily against them in disciplinary proceedings.
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