A law firm owner has been suspended for 12 months after a campaign of harassment against five junior female lawyers, including one who was given a box of vitamins intended for women aged 70 and over. John Navani, 58, who ran Criminal Defence Solicitors in Central London, was found by the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) to have engaged in a pattern of bullying, sexist, and humiliating behaviour.
Humiliation in the Office
The tribunal heard that Navani gave a junior lawyer known as 'Person C' two boxes of 'Wellwoman 70+' supplements in front of other staff members after she disclosed medical issues. He told her the vitamins would 'make her better and stop her taking time off for medical appointments'. The tribunal ruled that this act was 'designed to humiliate'. Person C also recalled Navani describing her eczema as 'disgusting' and asking colleagues if it was 'catchy'.
Pattern of Harassment
Navani's misconduct extended to other female employees. An intern, 'Person E', was driven to his flat after a Christmas party despite her repeated requests to be taken to a train station. Once inside, he dimmed the lights, adjusted the sofa to recline, suggested she lie down, and asked if she would be his 'live-in nanny'. He then asked for a hug and a kiss before she left. The tribunal described this behaviour as 'sexually motivated' and said it made Person E feel 'trapped and fearful'.
Another employee, 'Person A', was subjected to inappropriate comments about prostitutes, snapped fingers to get her attention, and was berated for not bringing back treats from holiday. Navani also called her into a 30-minute meeting where he 'stood over her, clenched his fists, and spoke through gritted teeth', causing her to fear physical harm.
Wider Pattern of Misconduct
The tribunal noted recurring themes across the complainants' evidence, including inappropriate personal questioning, comments about appearance or dress, dismissive or demeaning language, and conduct that blurred professional boundaries. It also highlighted Navani's repeated queries to staff who did not bring back sweets or treats after annual leave.
Navani was admitted as a solicitor in 1996 and founded the firm in 1999. He initially denied any improper motive, claiming the vitamins were a gesture of help. However, the tribunal accepted Person C's account and ruled that the giving of the vitamins was designed to humiliate. The tribunal concluded that the harm was compounded by the substantial imbalance of power and Navani's position of authority, which rendered the complainants particularly vulnerable.
Navani has been suspended from practice for 12 months and will also be assessed for costs.
