Evil probate lawyer must wait for “Supreme Justice”

Earlier on this blog, I reported that Charles Barnes a probate lawyer in Duncan, Oklahoma, had been charged with embezzlement and forgery.  According to prosecutors, Barnes spent approximately $150,000 which belonged to one of his clients.  He was holding the funds for the family’s estate but when the family tried to collect the funds, they had disappeared.  Barnes told investigators that he spent the money because he had financial troubles.  He then engaged in various activities to hide the embezzlement.

It has now been reported that Barnes has died from what investigators say appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.  See Martha Neil, Missing Okla. Lawyer Found Dead in Seeming Suicide, ABA Journal Law News Now, Sept. 24, 2008.

Thus, Barnes has escaped being held accountable for his actions but his victims may still have recourse against his estate, assuming there are assets which can be reached to satisfy their claims.  As for Barnes’ punishment for his actions, we may never know whether he was able to get in the Pearly Gates or if he will be roasting for a while.

Special thanks to Deborah Letz (attorney, San Antonio, Texas) and for bringing this updated information to my attention.