The local legal community is mourning the loss of one of its own.
Defence counsel Ruth Roberts, a member of Bonn Law has passed away.
She was recently diagnosed with a serious illness.
Roberts was a member of the Belleville criminal defence bar for over 20 years, advocating vigorously on behalf of her clients.
A statement from Crown Attorney Lee Burgess states she will be remembered for her charm and her sense of humour and will be missed by the courthouse community.
He says she was the organizer and the driving force behind the “Brunch Bunch” where members of the courthouse and legal community sponsored and cooked a brunch at the Salvation Army once a month for anyone who wanted one.
The Bonn Law website calls Roberts a fearless advocate who worked tirelessly for her clients and had a reputation for defending difficult cases.
Roberts, mother to two sons, was also a recipient of the Canada 125 Medal in recognition of her volunteer service.
Funeral details have not yet been announced.