Former federal prosecutor gives up law license after client-theft claim
A former federal prosecutor who for many years served as the first assistant to the U.S. attorney in Connecticut has given up his law license after a misappropriation claim by a former client.
H. James Pickerstein said in a Friday filing (PDF) in state court in Bridgeport that he is resigning from the practice of law because there exists “sufficient evidence to prove by clear and convincing evidence” a violation of legal ethics rules concerning client funds safekeeping although he denies “some or all of the material facts alleged in the pending investigation” the Hartford Courant reports.
Relying on unidentified sources, the article says a former client has accused Pickerstein of misappropriating $704,000.
Pickerstein was not available to comment, and his lawyers declined to elaborate. But he issued a written statement to the newspaper in his support.
“Jim Pickerstein has helped countless clients and lawyers, many without charge, throughout his career, despite a number of profound personal tragedies,” the statement said. “Those he has helped have reached out to express their strong support. He is and has been cooperating with authorities. We consider it an honor to represent Jim.”
