A suspended Florida attorney, Brandon Laboner, is accused of murdering his father, prominent Boca Raton attorney Paul Laboner, after allegedly stealing thousands of dollars from a family trust fund. The investigation is ongoing, exploring the weight of the evidence and the events leading up to the tragic incident.
On July 3rd, 34-year-old Brandon Laboner was charged with premeditated first-degree murder with a firearm. The charge follows the discovery of Paul Laboner’s body at his residence on Saturday, July 1st. The victim had been shot four times.
Former Florida prosecutor, Melba Pearson, speaking with Law and Crime Network, indicated that the investigation is in its early stages. While officials have not publicly confirmed the victim’s identity, widespread reports identify him as Paul Laboner.
Brandon Laboner
The victim’s family has invoked Marcy’s Law, a privacy law protecting their identity. This has led to speculation regarding the motives for withholding the victim’s name, especially considering the victim is deceased. Pearson suggests that concerns about safety, reputation, and a desire to let the legal process unfold without the influence of public opinion might be contributing factors.
Before the murder, Brandon Laboner worked alongside his father at the Law Offices of Paul Laboner. The firm’s website highlighted Brandon’s specialization in estate planning, particularly his work representing individuals and families with their drafting needs and the administration of revocable and irrevocable trusts. The website also boasted Brandon’s academic credentials, including degrees from the University of Florida and Nova Southeastern University.
However, their professional relationship soured in 2022 when Paul Laboner accused his son of stealing nearly $500,000 from a spousal trust fund, for which Brandon was a trustee. This led to Paul Laboner suing his son for $30,000 in September of last year. Court documents cited Brandon’s “poor work ethic” and “subpar performance” as a plaintiff’s attorney, with his father arguing that this resulted in missed viable cases.
The alleged theft and ensuing legal battle are believed to be central to the murder investigation. Prosecutors are likely to explore whether the impending legal proceedings and potential consequences motivated the crime.
Gavel and Law Books
Further deepening the intrigue, Brandon Laboner’s law license was suspended in April of this year. Just one day before the shooting, he petitioned the Florida Bar to have his membership revoked. This move suggests a desire to expedite the disciplinary process and potentially control the timeline for reapplication.
Adding to the chilling sequence of events, just one day after submitting his disbarment application, Brandon allegedly shot his father in a breezeway outside his law firm. According to court documents, investigators discovered the victim lying in a “large pool of blood.”
The probable cause affidavit reveals that Brandon rode a bike to his father’s law offices. Security camera footage from a property management company captured this, and local news stations report that Brandon’s sister positively identified him from the video.
Furthermore, additional video allegedly shows Brandon retrieving a gun from a box and concealing it. This security footage, along with cell phone records, bank transactions, past communications, DNA, and fingerprint evidence, will be meticulously examined as the investigation progresses.
Inside Brandon’s vehicle, investigators found a gun box, a lighter, gloves, and a face mask, further strengthening the prosecution’s case.
Following the alleged shooting, Brandon barricaded himself inside his law office, refusing to speak with first responders and communicating only through his attorney. This behavior, while indicative of legal counsel, could also suggest a mental health crisis or an attempt to avoid immediate consequences.
Brandon Laboner was apprehended approximately three miles from the crime scene. At the time of his arrest, he had an active warrant for driving under the influence in neighboring Broward County.
The case has drawn comparisons to the disgraced South Carolina attorney and convicted murderer, Alex Murdaugh. Both cases involve legal professionals accused of heinous crimes, highlighting the complexities of power, privilege, and the potential for darkness within the legal profession.
Brandon Laboner’s refusal to cooperate with authorities and his decision to barricade himself raise questions about his mental state. While this does not absolve him of the alleged murder, it adds another layer of complexity to the case.
Charged with first-degree premeditated murder, Brandon Laboner could face the death penalty in Florida. He is currently held without bond at the Palm Beach County jail, with a court date scheduled for August 1st.
This tragic case highlights the devastating consequences of fractured family relationships, financial disputes, and the potential for violence. As the investigation continues, the legal system will work to uncover the truth and deliver justice for Paul Laboner.
