Peters & Peters is delighted to announce a significant legal victory in the High Court of Justice, Chancery Division, on behalf of its clients, Charles Claire LLP and Lynx Golf Limited.

In a comprehensive and well-reasoned judgment handed down today by Deputy High Court Judge Charles Morrison ([2025] EWHC 1802 (Ch)), the Court found in favour of the Claimants in their claims against Mr Kevin Woolgar, a former commercial representative, for deceit and breach of trust arising from the receipt of substantial secret commissions.

The Court held that Mr Woolgar had deliberately manipulated invoices to include undisclosed margins, contrary to the terms of his consultancy agreement and the representations made to the Claimants. The Court awarded the Claimants damages based on a 25% average commission rate across all transactions, amounting to a significant recovery, as well as compensation for professional and management costs incurred during an HMRC investigation triggered by Mr Woolgar’s conduct.

The judgment is a clear affirmation of the legal protections available to businesses against fraudulent misrepresentation and breach of fiduciary duty. It underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in commercial relationships, particularly where trust and discretion are central to the role performed.

Peters & Peters instructed Sam Goodman and Charles Connor (both of Twenty Essex) to lead the Claimants’ case.

Jonathan Tickner, Head of Fraud and Commercial Disputes at Peters & Peters, commented:

“This is an important judgment that sends a clear message about the seriousness of secret commissions and the importance of transparency in commercial relationships. We are delighted to have secured a just outcome for our clients and proud of the team’s exceptional work.”