Renowned Los Angeles attorney Tom Girardi, 84, has been declared competent to stand trial amidst allegations of embezzling over $15 million from his clients. The federal judge issued a sealed notice confirming Girardi’s competency, allowing both legal teams five days to flag any information they wish to remain confidential.
Girardi, notably recognized as the estranged husband of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” personality Erika Jayne, pleaded not guilty last year in Los Angeles on charges of wire fraud. The allegations suggest he misappropriated funds from various clients, including an Arizona widow, a Los Angeles family impacted by a devastating accident, and a victim of the San Bruno gas pipeline explosion, potentially leading to decades in federal prison if convicted.
The competency hearing centered on Girardi’s comprehension of the charges and ability to contribute to his defense. His lawyers argued his diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease rendered him unable to actively participate in the trial due to confusion and memory impairment, citing his current residence in a memory care unit at a nursing home. Prosecutors, however, countered these claims, alleging an exaggeration of symptoms.
Once a prominent figure in plaintiff law, Girardi tackled high-profile cases against major entities, including a significant case against Pacific Gas and Electric, culminating in a $333 million settlement, later depicted in the movie “Erin Brockovich.” However, his legal career took a downturn, resulting in disbarment in California in 2022 following allegations of client thefts, leading to a cascade of legal troubles.
Apart from the Los Angeles case, Girardi also faces federal wire fraud charges in Chicago, accused of embezzling around $3 million from the families affected by the 2018 Lion Air crash, where 189 people lost their lives. The Chicago court is anticipated to align its decision regarding Girardi’s competency based on the recent ruling in California.
Pic Courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright
