A member of the Miccosukee Tribe of Florida says he doesn't know who paid $3.1 million to his law firm.

Jimmie Bert and his daughter, Tammy Gwen Billie, have been represented Lewis Tein, a firm led by two former U.S. Attorneys. Bert and Billie were found at fault in a wrongful death case and were ordered to pay $3.2 million to the family of Liliana Bermudez.

The defendants have refused to pay the judgment, saying they lack funds. But someone Lewis Tein was paid $3.1 million -- money that the firm suggests came directly from the tribe.

Bert, however, denies asking the tribe for money. But the tribe's assistant chairman recently testified that the tribe approved a loan for Bert and Billie to pay their legal fees.

Get the Story:
Miccosukee Indian disputes lawyers’ account about source of legal payments in fatal car-crash case (The Miami Herald 11/28)

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