Should The Laundrie's Attorney Be Disbarred for Lying About Gabby Petito's Whereabouts?
Dec 13, 2023, 02:00 AM
Share
Subscribe
What does it mean when parents seemingly overlook the disappearance of their son's fiancée, who lived with them, and choose a family camping trip instead? This perplexing behavior, seen in the case of Gabby Petito and Brian Laundrie, raises questions about the intersection of moral judgment and legal responsibility. Former prosecutor Laurie Gilbertson joined Tony Brueski on the "Hidden Killers" podcast to delve into these issues, particularly the new allegations that the Laundrie family was aware of Gabby's fate earlier than they let on.
The Laundries' actions, or lack thereof, in the wake of Gabby Petito's disappearance have left many shaking their heads in disbelief. Gilbertson, reflecting on the case, remarked, "It's just heartbreaking to think about," acknowledging the difficulty in understanding their decisions. She emphasized the significance of the allegation that the family knew Gabby was "gone," likely dead, and yet remained silent. This, according to Gilbertson, is not just a matter of failing to act but crosses a line into potential criminality, especially considering their subsequent actions.
The conversation shifted to the concept of "consciousness of guilt," a legal notion used in court to interpret actions indicative of knowing one has committed a crime. Gilbertson pointed out that the Laundries' behavior, such as hiring a lawyer, lying to the press, and not aiding in finding Gabby, could be seen as evidence of this. While there is a strong civil case, whether their actions rise to the level of criminality depends on further revelations about their actions and inactions.
Gilbertson also discussed the role of Steven Bertolino, the Laundries' attorney, in this complex saga. The moral and legal implications of Bertolino's actions, particularly his public statements when he allegedly knew of Gabby's demise, raise serious questions. "Certainly can cross some legal lines," Gilbertson stated, suggesting that Bertolino's conduct could lead to an inquiry into his professional standing, potentially affecting his law license.
The legal expert then clarified the delicate balance between moral and legal obligations in the justice system. A lawyer’s ultimate allegiance, she explained, is to the court and the process of justice, not just to the client. This means they cannot lie to the court or support perjury. In Bertolino's case, going public with misleading statements could be seen as overstepping this boundary.
Gilbertson's insights shed light on the complexities of the Petito case, illustrating the fine line between legal duty and moral responsibility. The case is not just a tragic story of a young woman’s untimely death but also a stark reminder of the challenges in navigating the legal system when emotions and personal relationships are deeply entwined.
As we await the unfolding of this case, one critical question remains: At what point does the desire to protect a loved one override the moral and legal obligation to seek justice, and what are the consequences of crossing that line? The Petito case, still unfolding, continues to challenge our understanding of justice, family bonds, and the limits of legal responsibility.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The Laundries' actions, or lack thereof, in the wake of Gabby Petito's disappearance have left many shaking their heads in disbelief. Gilbertson, reflecting on the case, remarked, "It's just heartbreaking to think about," acknowledging the difficulty in understanding their decisions. She emphasized the significance of the allegation that the family knew Gabby was "gone," likely dead, and yet remained silent. This, according to Gilbertson, is not just a matter of failing to act but crosses a line into potential criminality, especially considering their subsequent actions.
The conversation shifted to the concept of "consciousness of guilt," a legal notion used in court to interpret actions indicative of knowing one has committed a crime. Gilbertson pointed out that the Laundries' behavior, such as hiring a lawyer, lying to the press, and not aiding in finding Gabby, could be seen as evidence of this. While there is a strong civil case, whether their actions rise to the level of criminality depends on further revelations about their actions and inactions.
Gilbertson also discussed the role of Steven Bertolino, the Laundries' attorney, in this complex saga. The moral and legal implications of Bertolino's actions, particularly his public statements when he allegedly knew of Gabby's demise, raise serious questions. "Certainly can cross some legal lines," Gilbertson stated, suggesting that Bertolino's conduct could lead to an inquiry into his professional standing, potentially affecting his law license.
The legal expert then clarified the delicate balance between moral and legal obligations in the justice system. A lawyer’s ultimate allegiance, she explained, is to the court and the process of justice, not just to the client. This means they cannot lie to the court or support perjury. In Bertolino's case, going public with misleading statements could be seen as overstepping this boundary.
Gilbertson's insights shed light on the complexities of the Petito case, illustrating the fine line between legal duty and moral responsibility. The case is not just a tragic story of a young woman’s untimely death but also a stark reminder of the challenges in navigating the legal system when emotions and personal relationships are deeply entwined.
As we await the unfolding of this case, one critical question remains: At what point does the desire to protect a loved one override the moral and legal obligation to seek justice, and what are the consequences of crossing that line? The Petito case, still unfolding, continues to challenge our understanding of justice, family bonds, and the limits of legal responsibility.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com