Conviction of Charlie Javice

The fintech entrepreneur Charlie Javice was convicted on four counts of defrauding JPMorgan.

Photo by Brendan McDermid/Reuters

Post-Verdict Juror Contact Concerns

Lawyers representing Charlie Javice have been attempting to conduct post-verdict interviews with the federal jurors who found her guilty of fraud last week in Manhattan. This situation has left one juror so unsettled that they contacted the US Marshal Service to voice their concerns.

According to a sternly worded letter from the trial judge, several jurors expressed discomfort regarding the defense attorneys’ outreach efforts to inquire about jury deliberations. US District Judge Alvin Hellerstein disclosed these jurors’ concerns in a warning letter sent to the defense team, which was made public shortly after.

Judge’s Warning

In the letter, sent 10 days post-verdict, Judge Hellerstein stated that while post-trial communications with jurors are permissible once the jury has been discharged, he emphasized the need for the defense team to adhere to New York state’s attorney conduct regulations.

The regulations prohibit attorneys from contacting discharged jurors under specific circumstances, particularly if a juror has expressed a desire not to be communicated with, and if a lawyer’s outreach might involve “misrepresentation, coercion, duress, or harassment.”

Violating these conduct rules could result in disciplinary actions, including reprimands and potentially the loss of a license to practice law in severe instances.

Defense’s Stance

In response to inquiries from Business Insider, a representative for Javice noted that it is “customary and entirely appropriate” for defense consultants to pursue “potential avenues for post-trial motions and appellate relief” following a verdict. Juda Engelmayer, representing Javice, stated, “No misrepresentation has occurred, nor has any conduct been improper,” and emphasized that requests not to be contacted are respected.

Upcoming Sentencing

Charlie Javice, 33, is currently free on a $2 million bail as she awaits her sentencing scheduled for August 26. Her co-defendant, Olivier Amar, is due for sentencing on July 23. The fraud and conspiracy convictions that they face could lead to maximum sentences of up to 30 years in federal prison.

Both Javice and Amar have been fitted with ankle monitors, contrary to their objections, while they remain free ahead of sentencing. They continue to contest the requirement to wear these devices. Javice’s attorneys argue that the monitor hinders her ability to teach Pilates in Miami Beach, leading her attorney Ron Sullivan to describe it as a “significant encumbrance.” Amar’s attorney noted that the device makes him feel like a “pariah.” The judge has raised concerns regarding the defendants’ citizenship in countries with non-extradition treaties; Javice holds dual citizenship in the U.S. and France, and indicated that he would make a ruling on this matter soon.