Madarasinghage Chandradasa vs Dhammika Ambewela – SC RULE NO 04/2024-2025

In the case between Mr. Madarasinghage Chandradasa (Virtual Complainant) and Dhammika Ambewela, Attorney-at-Law (Respondent), issues of deceit, fraudulent conduct, and legal malpractice were considered by the court. The central question addressed was whether the Respondent’s actions—including misrepresenting a property sale, failing to execute a deed of transfer as agreed, and misappropriating funds—provided grounds for suspension or removal from the Roll of Attorneys-at-Law under Section 42(2) of the Judicature Act. Upon examination of consistent testimonial and documentary evidence, the findings established that the Respondent was guilty of the alleged misconduct. The court affirmed that legal practitioners are held to strict ethical standards, and a breach of such standards—particularly