News & Insights

Brandon Essig Quoted in Media Coverage of Todd and Julie Chrisley Bond Denial, Writes Article for Law360

January 17, 2023

Lightfoot, Franklin & White LLC partner Brandon K. Essig is quoted in recent media coverage of a court ruling denying bond to reality stars Todd and Julie Chrisley in connection with an appeal of their fraud convictions and sentences. He also wrote an article on the topic for Law360. 

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution turned to Essig for a legal perspective regarding situations where bond is denied. He also discussed how the couple’s lack of remorse could impact their case. 

“It looks to me that their hubris, lack of humility and unwillingness to accept responsibility put them in a worse position legally,” Essig told the Journal-Constitution. 

Essig’s article for Law360, is titled “Chrisley’s Harsh Sentences Come Down to Harm and Hubris” and outlines his perspective on the case. He notes that there were victims of the Chrisley’s crimes “that suffered real, tangible harm.” Essig also pointed to the fact that: the Chrisleys “violated the cardinal rule of sentencing by not showing any contrition or acceptance of responsibility for their conduct.”

Last November, Todd Chrisley, the primary star of USA Network’s “Chrisley Knows Best,” was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for bank fraud and tax evasion offenses totaling more than $36 million. His wife Julie received a sentence of seven years. 

Both sought – and were denied – bail while awaiting the outcome of appeals to the Eleventh Circuit. The judge also denied their additional request for a later prison report date. 

Essig is a veteran litigator and former assistant U.S. attorney with a robust civil, white-collar and investigations practice. He has tried dozens of high-profile jury cases and his courtroom experience includes both civil and criminal trials in state and federal courts, as well as multiple appellate arguments. He also handles a diverse docket of civil cases for the firm’s clients in state and federal courts and in arbitration forums.