Aloysius Wong, Zach Dubinsky · CBC News
Nicholas Cartel and Singa Bui, a lawyer couple from Toronto, have been sentenced to 30 days in jail for contempt of court due to their failure to comply with orders to provide information regarding millions in missing funds from their law firm’s trust account. The ruling was announced on Friday, and Cartel’s sentence begins immediately, while Bui will serve hers starting November 26.
This case is noteworthy as it is uncommon for lawyers to face jail time for contempt, occurring only in extreme situations. The couple, operating under Cartel & Bui LLP, has been embroiled in a lawsuit filed by 25 homebuyers and sellers after over $6.5 million was embezzled from their trust account between April and December 2023.
Judge William Chalmers emphasized the couple’s lack of remorse and their ongoing attempts to conceal their financial dealings. Despite being ordered multiple times to disclose their finances, Cartel and Bui have not complied, prompting the court to impose jail time rather than merely fines.
During the proceedings, Bui’s travel history raised eyebrows, as she took trips to Europe during the time the funds went missing, even after being instructed to surrender her passport to prevent her from leaving the jurisdiction. The judge pointed out that while they surrendered their passports, many court orders remained unfulfilled.
Both Cartel and Bui have faced provisional suspension from the Law Society of Ontario while the investigation continues. The couple’s legal troubles have left many victims without their funds, with one plaintiff stating that while they feel hopeful, the journey to recover their money remains daunting.
