Julia S.
Very disappointing experience with Margarita Ivanova
Very disappointing experience with Margarita Ivanova and Setfords. After I started asking clarifying questions by email regarding the legal documents and process, the retainer was terminated citing a “breakdown of trust and confidence”. The firm appears to have conflated scrutiny and requests for clarification with a lack of professional trust. I do not agree that asking clarification questions in writing regarding lender requirements and legal structure should reasonably amount to a breakdown of trust and confidence. In a complex property transaction involving a declaration of trust, transfer of funds and lender requirements, requesting written clarification is normal and responsible client risk management, not misconduct or lack of trust. Following the questions I raised via email regarding my matter, I subsequently received a series of emotional and, in my view, inappropriate WhatsApp voice messages from Margarita. I found the tone, approach, and manner of communication distressing, disproportionate, and inappropriate in a professional solicitor-client relationship. My complaint also took almost 15 weeks to resolve instead of the stated 8 weeks. The firm didn’t acknowledge wrongdoing. The matter is now with the Legal Ombudsman. Unfortunately, I cannot recommend this firm based on my experience.
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