A North Carolina tax attorney earned a suspension over some criminal charges he faces in neighboring South Carolina. Is it anything serious? Depends on how you feel about kidnapping and attempted murder.
So… yeah, pretty serious.
Tax attorneys, man. Why is it always the quiet ones who get in this kind trouble?
Free Attorney Time Tracking Template For Smarter Billing
Tired of messy time logs? This free attorney time tracking template helps you bill with confidence and accuracy. Learn more in the full article.
The Legal Profession Blog had the terrifying story from local news outlet WRAL
A 39-year-old Cary man, who has worked as a tax attorney in Raleigh, is accused of holding his ex-girlfriend hostage at a South Carolina grocery store.
The Isle of Palms Police Department has charged Robert Howell with attempted murder, kidnapping and first-degree burglary in the incident, which happened Wednesday.
Investigators said Robert Howell followed Autumn Yee, 29, of Cary, to Isle of Palms, where she was vacationing. Howell allegedly took Yee to Hudson’s Market, where she alerted one of the clerks by silently mouthing “call police.”
In a 911 recording, the woman can be heard speaking to an emergency operator about the situation.
“I need you to come to Wild Dunes, please. There’s a man with a gun and he’s holding me hostage,” she said.
According to the report, Howell is involved in a custody battle with his ex-wife, who took news of the incident and immediately sought a protective order. Smart move.
Per his LinkedIn profile, Howell earned his law degree from UNC Law and formerly worked at Deloitte and McDermott, Will & Emery’s Chicago office. Most recently, he worked at Poynter & Spurill in Raleigh, though the firm says Howell left his job in April.
Why Law Firms Are Moving Beyond The Billable Hour
Explore 5 expert-backed reasons law firms are rethinking the billable hour and how legal billing software is leading the way.
As the court order says, the reports of this incident raise serious questions about Howell’s mental health. Thankfully, Yee is safe.
(The full suspension order available on the next page.)
Attempted Murder And Other Charges Get Attorney Suspended [Legal Profession Blog]
Cary man accused of holding ex-girlfriend hostage in SC store [WRAL]