Chrystine A. Bernard

Findings — machine-extracted (anthropic-batch:claude-opus-4-8); verify against the decision

The attorney was retained to act in a land purchase and paid J$913,807.50 for stamping duties and legal fees, but failed to stamp the agreement or register the transfer, forcing the complainant to obtain his title himself. The Committee found she knowingly used her client's money for her own or other purposes and failed to account for it. Although the tribunal found she knowingly used client funds, it did not make an express finding of 'dishonesty.' She was struck off the Roll and ordered to pay restitution of J$1,182,761.40 and costs of J$50,000.00.

Duties found breached:

• No taking unfair advantage
• Uphold public trust in the profession
• Keep client informed and respond promptly
• No conflict between current clients
• No improper use of client money

Aggravating factors:

• Knowingly used client's funds for own or other purposes
• Client had to borrow money and personally attend the Stamp and Titles Offices to obtain his title
• Failed to complete the transaction over a two-year period

Mitigating factors:

• Attorney apologised to the complainant