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This article sets out similar thoughts that occurred to me when I read the press reports. I haven't found the judgment.

There is an analogous case: that of Iain Farrimond who pleaded guilty to attempted murder - a more serious offence - of his wife. The evidence was that he was at the time overcome by the worst depression, she forgave him and wanted him home and his character was personally and professionally spotless. The sentence was as low as it could be.

The SDT suspended him from practice on the basis that he should not be deprived of a future and presumably he posed no future risk professionally or otherwise to the public which he might serve. On appeal the High Court disagreed and struck him off. Bringing the profession into disrepute and risk.

I think that there is a different standard in play here. And there shouldn't be. Perhaps Chancery Lane will look into it.