t is understood that the Solicitors Regulation Authority is aware of the firm’s closure. The Gazette has tried to contact the firm but nobody was answering the phone today.

Requests have been made through Linkedin to find alternative providers for Samuel Phillips Law trainee solicitors whose training contracts have been ended prematurely. Three apprentices who were working for the firm are understood to need a employer to complete their training.

One paralegal, who was due to begin her training contract in the new year, said she is now actively seeking new opportunities and added: ‘This has been heartbreaking news for all of us.’