Legal practice controversy prompts commissioner to leave law firm

WEST PALM BEACH-A scandal involving a well-connected Ft. Lauderdale law firm has reached into Palm Beach County. Monday County Commissioner Steve Abrams announced he's leaving the legal practice, because of the controversy.

The firm is Rothstein Rosenfeldt Adler. The man who headed the practice, and is now under suspicion, is Scott Rothstein. He is being linked to a set of phony investments, and court documents filed today in Broward County, allege some law firm funds cannot be accounted for.  Rothstein's whereabouts are unknown.

Commissioner Abrams, who was one of three lawyers at the Boca Raton satellite office, said he had no knowledge of what's being alleged. "It surprised everybody at the firm," said Abrams. "Just completely shell-shocked."

Abrams said leaving the practice is the right thing to do. "As a public figure, I just don't feel I should be associated with whatever the issues are with the firm," he said.

Also on the Rothstein Rosenfeldt Adler legal roster was former Palm Beach County Circuit Judge William Berger. He was among lawyers at the firm representing victims of Palm Beach billionaire Jeffrey Epstein in civil lawsuits.

The Rothstein law firm is also known for its political connections and contributions. CampaignMoney.com reports Rothstein sent $139,000 to mostly Republican candidates, plus a couple Democrats. The law firm, as a whole, was responsible for a half million in political contributions, according to the web site.