Leonard Hil Marriott, a Vernon lawyer, was found to have taken $117,000 from an 84‑year‑old client who was living with dementia. The tribunal said he used the cash to purchase an apartment for himself, to settle another client’s estate, and to secure a half‑ownership interest in the woman’s condo, which was valued at roughly $400,000.

In a decision released on Sept. 24, the Law Society of British Columbia tribunal described Marriott’s conduct as misappropriation, calling it “tantamount to theft.” Marriott tried to argue that the withdrawal should be treated as an “improper withdrawal of funds,” a lesser finding, but the tribunal rejected his claim.

The case is not Marriott’s first breach of trust. In 2025 the Law Society banned him for ten years after finding misconduct with two other elderly clients. Despite the ban, his North Valley Law practice was later seized because he kept controlling solicitor trust accounts.

Forensic accountant Marilyn Mellis explained that the Law Society can label conduct as misappropriation, but it cannot order repayment or start a criminal case. Those decisions belong to the courts or police, which often do not pursue such claims.

Because the regulator cannot force restitution, Marriott’s victims must rely on civil actions. The woman’s family has already filed a lawsuit in the B.C. Supreme Court alleging conspiracy to divert her money and have asked the court to appoint guardians. The case remains pending.