Bristol-based legal firm ex-employee accused of stealing £1.6m belonging to clients and owners

An ex-employee of a national legal firm with headquarters in Bristol is accused of stealing £1.6m in cash from the company belonging to its clients and directors over a five-year period.

Jamie Cockwell, 38, appeared at Bristol Magistates Court today (August 15). Dressed smartly in a suit, Cockwell offered no indication of a plea to the charge of theft when it was put to him.

Cockwell is accused of taking the money belonging to clients of Kingswood-based firm WDS Legal Services, as well as its directors Michael and Debra Diamond, between November 2015 and April 2020.

Cockwell, of Shackleton Avenue in Yate, was previously married to one of the daughters of Mr and Mrs Diamond.

WDS Legal Services has been operating for 30 year years. In 2020 it was named Legal Service Specialist of the year at the Bristol Prestige Awards. Services include safe storage, funeral planning and will writing.

The case was adjourned for a plea and direction hearing at Bristol Crown Court on September 13. Cockwell was released until that date on unconditional bail.