Lawyer sentenced to jail for rip off

An Auckland lawyer was jailed for 15 months and ordered to pay $60,000 reparation in Auckland District Court today for ripping off a deceased estate with excessive and exorbitant fees.

David James Watt was found guilty on February 2 of converting money belonging to the late Leonard Hoare's estate to a use not authorised by the trust with intent to defraud and in violation of the trust.

Watt charged $150,000 in lawyer's fees as the sole trustee of a $350,000 estate. Watt had paid $30,000 for advice from other lawyers.

Judge Roderick Joyce QC said Watt was entitled to approximately $25,000 in legitimate fees.

"This is a classic case of client placing full trust in their solicitor which turned out to be misplaced," Judge Joyce said.

Watt's defence lawyer Paul Davison QC said Watt was able to pay $60,000 in reparation.

Judge Joyce allowed Watt to apply for home detention.

- NZPA