Jailhouse lawsuit filed by inmate against attorney claiming bad advice resulted in parole violation, imprisonment

GRETNA – An inmate is suing an attorney who represented him during a criminal trial for alleged legal malpractice for allegedly wrongfully advising him he would not be jailed for pleading guilty to a misdemeanor crime.

Anthony Jones filed suit against Benny S. George in the 24th Judicial District Court on Dec. 29, 2014.

Jones contends that he was initially sentenced to a prison term on Jan. 28, 2010, and released on Sept. 11, 2011. The plaintiff alleges that in December 2013 he was accused of a misdemeanor crime that triggered a parole violation. Jones asserts he retained George to serve as his attorney and represent him in the matter, but alleges George was either late or did not procure and possess evidence needed in order for the matter to be resolved in his favor.

The plaintiff claims that the defendant also did not establish a relationship of trust and confidence and failed to diligently discuss the facts of the case concerning the alleged misdemeanor charge with him. Jones alleges that although he was completely innocent of the crime, George ultimately failed to procure and present evidence in his defense and instead suggested he plead guilty, misinforming him that if he did so he would receive no extra jail time. However, the plaintiff contends that when he pleaded guilty to the crime, which he maintains he would not have done without the advice of his attorney, his parole was revoked and he was incarcerated for the remainder of a previously suspended jail term.

The defendant is accused of negligence and legal malpractice.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for undue imprisonment, humiliation, loss of wages, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of consortium and undue anxiety.

Jones is representing himself pro se in the case.

The case has been assigned to Division F Judge Michael P. Mentz.

Case no. 745-569.