Law Firm Head Humiliated Female Employees for Years Over Infertility, Appearance, and Weight — But Avoided Punishment After 40 Complaints
A scandal has erupted in the United Kingdom around the owner of a law firm, who was accused by former female employees of years of humiliation, insults, and sexual innuendos. Despite a disciplinary tribunal confirming over 40 instances of misconduct, the lawyer was still allowed to continue his career.
The case concerns the owner of the London company John Kishin Navani. During the hearings, former employees reported that the boss shouted at subordinates, mocked their personal problems, made sexist and racist remarks, and allowed himself inappropriate jokes and psychological pressure.
This is stated in the decision of the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal — an independent disciplinary body that reviews cases involving British solicitors.
The tribunal's decision notes that such behavior lasted for years and was accompanied by abuse of power over junior staff. One woman said she felt "scared and trapped" after interacting with the boss.
Employees told about humiliation and psychological pressure
One former employee said the boss demanded an explanation for her visit to the doctor. When she admitted she had problems conceiving a child, he replied that she "at least wouldn't need maternity leave." The woman said this deeply offended her.
Another employee reported that after her grandfather's funeral, the boss asked if she had brought him "treats." Another woman said Navani mocked her for eczema and said she looked "disgusting."
Employees also complained about sexist jokes, racist remarks, and constant psychological pressure. According to one complainant, the boss regularly asked personal questions, commented on appearances, and suggested meeting after work.
Scandal after a corporate party and harassment accusations
The tribunal separately considered an episode after a 2018 corporate party. An employee stated that instead of taking her home, Navani took her to his apartment and asked her to kiss him. The tribunal did not find part of this episode proven, but overall the women's testimonies were called truthful and convincing.
The lawyer denied all the accusations. However, the tribunal concluded that his explanations were contradictory and unconvincing.
Why the lawyer was not disbarred
Despite the seriousness of the violations, Navani was not disbarred. He was given a one-year suspension from practice, but conditionally — with a two-year probation period. He was also prohibited from conducting interviews and participating in disciplinary checks in law firms.
The tribunal's decision stated that permanent disbarment was considered a "disproportionate punishment" since the case did not involve fraud or client money.
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