News Summary
The New Orleans legal community is remembering Robert Jenkins, a prominent defense attorney who passed away at 67. Known for his high-profile cases, including former Mayor Ray Nagin, Jenkins faced significant challenges in his career, including multiple suspensions. His legacy and impact on law and justice in the city will be remembered.
New Orleans Mourns the Loss of Defense Attorney Robert Jenkins at 67
New Orleans, known for its vibrant culture and lively music scene, is now reflecting on the life of one of its prominent legal figures, Robert Jenkins. The seasoned defense attorney has passed away at the age of 67. The news of his death was shared on social media by Darren Lombard, the Orleans Parish Clerk of Criminal Court, on April 26. While the specific cause of death has not been disclosed, Jenkins’ career and legacy in the legal community will not be easily forgotten.
A Career Steeped in Legal Battles
Robert Jenkins’ legal journey began back in December 1988, making him a recognized figure in the New Orleans courtroom scene for over three decades. Throughout his career, Jenkins achieved celebrity status as a defense attorney, representing high-profile clients embroiled in contentious legal troubles. His most notable cases included those of former New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin and former Jefferson Parish President Aaron Broussard, both of whom faced serious allegations related to public corruption.
Nagin, in particular, had a tumultuous trial, ultimately being convicted on 20 out of 21 charges, leading to a ten-year prison sentence. There were claims following the trial that Jenkins’ performance fell short of expectations, which Nagin aired through an appeal, but that appeal was ultimately rejected.
Legal Challenges and Suspensions
As much as he was known for his high-stakes defense work, Jenkins also confronted serious challenges regarding his professional conduct. At the time of his death, he was under his second suspension from practicing law within just three years. The Louisiana Supreme Court had ordered a year-and-a-day suspension on June 20, following Jenkins’ admission of several violations of the Rules of Professional Conduct. This wasn’t his first run-in with discipline; he faced a prior six-month suspension in April 2021 over allegations of misconduct, particularly in how he managed cases involving convicted prisoners.Â
Issues arose from Jenkins’ failure to inform his clients about his suspensions and for allegedly submitting false affidavits to the state Supreme Court. Such conduct has painted a complex picture of his time as an attorney, leading to criticism and calls for accountability from within the legal community.
A Legacy Beyond the Courtroom
Despite the controversies surrounding his legal career, Jenkins was also known for his role as a legal analyst on local television, where his insights and opinions added a unique flavor to discussions about law and justice. This duality illustrates the many facets of his life, from dealing with high-profile cases to offering commentary to the public about the legal system.
Personal Life and Community Impact
Jenkins is survived by two sons, with one following in his father’s footsteps to become a lawyer himself. This continuing legacy in law suggests that Jenkins’ influence extends beyond his own professional endeavors. He made significant contributions to the legal community, and many colleagues remember him fondly. Judge Roland Belsome, among others, expressed appreciation for Jenkins’ dedication to the Constitution and his commitment to serving the legal community.
A City Lost in Reflection
As New Orleans bids farewell to Robert Jenkins, the city reflects on a man whose legal prowess was as formidable as it was controversial. With a career marked by significant victories and serious challenges, Jenkins left an indelible mark on the legal landscape of the Crescent City.
In a city where stories are woven into its very fabric, Jenkins’ complex narrative is yet another chapter in the ongoing saga of New Orleans—a city that always remembers its colorful characters.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 8 Live: Longtime New Orleans Defense Attorney Robert Jenkins Has Died
- Wikipedia: Robert Jenkins
- WDSU: New Orleans Defense Attorney Legal Analyst Dies
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Defense Attorney
- NOLA: Robert Jenkins Receives 6-Month Law Suspension
