He admits four counts of fraud by false representation, two counts of theft and two forgery charges.

Mr McDonnell, 34 and from Banbridge, was warned that he faces a custodial sentence after posing as a barrister in order to defraud at least two people, both vulnerable women, of around £15,000.

As part of his fraud, he forged a letter from a recognised law firm as well as a court document which notified a change of solicitor.

Mr McDonnell has denied two further charges of fraud by false representation, namely that he told a woman he needed £590 for “use as an underhand payment to a judge”, and giving out payment instructions which he falsely said were to “discharge legal fees”.

A prosecution lawyer told Judge Patricia Smyth that the PPS would now decide whether to proceed with these charges.