SURVIVING OUTLAW JUSTICE

Attorney Leslie Ann Lasseigne — The Attorney I Wanted but Couldn't Keep

During one of the most difficult and consequential periods of my life, I encountered numerous attorneys. Some left me deeply disappointed in the legal profession. Others left me questioning whether the constitutional right to effective counsel meant anything at all.

And then there was Leslie Ann Lasseigne.

She was a breath of fresh air. From our very first discussions, I knew I was speaking with someone who understood the law, recognized the importance of evidence, and, perhaps most importantly, was actually listening.

Our conversations were like a tennis match. Back and forth, point after point, question after question. She was sharp, quick to understand complicated issues, and equally quick to identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution's case.

After reviewing some of the available information and discussing the circumstances with me, Leslie recognized what I believed was one of the central weaknesses in the State's case: proving possession, much less knowing possession.

That distinction was enormously important. She didn't simply nod her head and tell me what I wanted to hear. She engaged, questioned, analyzed, and offered meaningful legal insight.

At one point, I was seriously considering waiving my right to a jury trial and proceeding with a bench trial, placing my fate entirely in the hands of Judge John Stargel. Leslie strongly advised against it. That was her advice as I remember it, and it made a lasting impression on me.

Unfortunately, just when I believed I had finally found an attorney I could trust, a potential conflict of interest arose. Leslie disclosed that she had a prior connection with Detective Amy Harvill, including having attended school with her and previously performed estate planning work for her. Because of that relationship, she ultimately withdrew from representing me.

I was profoundly disappointed. Not in Leslie, but in the circumstances that prevented her from continuing.

I wanted her representing me. I trusted her judgment, appreciated her candor, and respected her ability to cut through the noise and focus on what the prosecution could actually prove.

But I also understood her decision to withdraw.

Looking back, what stands out most is that Leslie treated me like a human being entitled to a defense, rather than someone whose guilt should be presumed because of the allegations.

She demonstrated something I believe should be fundamental to every attorney-client relationship: professional integrity, thoughtful analysis, honest communication, and respect.

She never promised me an acquittal. She never pretended the road ahead would be easy.

She gave me something far more valuable: her genuine professional assessment and her honest advice.

Although our attorney-client relationship was brief and ended before she could take my case to trial, the impression she left has remained with me all these years.

I have been outspoken about attorneys whose conduct I believe fell short of their professional obligations. It is only fair that I be equally outspoken when someone earns my respect.

Leslie Ann Lasseigne did exactly that.

I would have welcomed the opportunity to have her stand beside me in court.

Leslie, if you ever happen to read this, thank you. Your professionalism, candor, and willingness to genuinely listen meant more than you may ever realize.

Not every attorney I encountered during my journey through the criminal justice system disappointed me. You were one of the exceptions.

And you deserve recognition for it.