Scruggs faces up to 5 years in prison

The Clarion-Ledger, 3/15/8

Dickie Scruggs, a prominent and influential trial lawyer portrayed in a 1999 hit movie, is facing a maximum five years in prison after admitting he conspired to bribe a judge.

Scruggs, 61, pleaded guilty Friday in a plea agreement in U.S. District Court in Oxford to one count of conspiracy to bribe Lafayette County Circuit Judge Henry Lackey.

Scruggs, who made millions off asbestos and tobacco litigation, also could have to pay a $250,000 fine.

Also, on the same day, his law partner, Sidney Backstrom, pleaded guilty to conspiracy. A sentencing date is pending for both.

The guilty pleas came 17 days before the scheduled March 31 trial of Scruggs, son Zach, also a lawyer, and Backstrom.