Woman was paid $1.4 million as fake lawyer, police allege

A Melbourne woman will face court accused of receiving over $1.4 million in salary for legal counsel despite not being a lawyer.

The 42-year-old Surrey Hills woman was arrested yesterday morning following an investigation into allegations an employee had purported herself as a qualified solicitor without a law degree or an Australian practicing certificate.

Police will allege the woman had practiced unqualified as legal counsel at a number of firms since 2019.

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Investigators claim she received more than $1.4 million in salary.

The woman was charged with five counts of fraud, and of engaging in legal practice while unqualified.

She was bailed and will appear in court on February 16.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at Crime Stoppers Victoria.

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