DA warns public about deceptive lawyers as Mass. attorney faces embezzlement charges

Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan announced criminal charges against a Melrose lawyer accused of embezzling tens of thousands from clients.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 6:52pm

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An extreme close-up of a stack of cash and a pen against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the physical evidence in an embezzlement case against a suspended attorney.A harsh, gritty image of the physical evidence at the center of an embezzlement case against a suspended Massachusetts attorney exposes the stark reality of deceptive legal practices.Woburn Today

Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan warned the public about deceptive lawyers on Thursday, announcing criminal charges against a Melrose attorney named Henry Rappa Jr. who is accused of embezzling $660,000 from one client and $18,100 and $3,200 from two other clients. Rappa is also accused of ignoring a court order to stop practicing law despite being suspended from practicing in January and July 2025.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing issue of lawyers misusing client funds and continuing to practice law despite suspensions, raising concerns about the need for stronger oversight and accountability in the legal profession to protect consumers.

The details

Rappa, who is listed as president of the Medford Community Housing Board, has been charged with two counts of embezzlement, two counts of larceny over $1,200, and unauthorized practice of law. He is accused of misusing client funds, failing to return them, and ignoring regulatory authorities. Despite being suspended from practicing law in January and July 2025, Rappa continued to practice law, prompting the district attorney's warning to the public to thoroughly research attorneys before hiring them.

  • Rappa was suspended from practicing law in January 2026, pending formal disciplinary proceedings.
  • Rappa was again suspended from practicing law in July 2025, according to the Board of Bar Overseers website.
  • Rappa continued practicing law despite his suspensions, according to District Attorney Marian Ryan.

The players

Marian Ryan

The Middlesex District Attorney who announced the criminal charges against Henry Rappa Jr. and warned the public about deceptive lawyers.

Henry Rappa Jr.

A 57-year-old Melrose lawyer who is accused of embezzling $660,000 from one client and $18,100 and $3,200 from two other clients, as well as continuing to practice law despite being suspended.

Board of Bar Overseers

The organization that suspended Rappa from practicing law in January 2026 and July 2025.

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What they’re saying

“Do your research" before hiring an attorney.”

— Marian Ryan, Middlesex District Attorney

“It reflects a continuing and concerning pattern of conduct.”

— Marian Ryan, Middlesex District Attorney

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on whether to allow Rappa to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger oversight and accountability in the legal profession to protect consumers from deceptive lawyers who misuse client funds and continue practicing despite suspensions. It serves as a warning for the public to thoroughly research attorneys before hiring them.