A Co Down solicitor today pleaded guilty to defrauding her former clients of up to £400,000.
As each of the 17 charges were put to Elaine Mary Early, of Killinchy Road, Comber, she replied, "Guilty, Your Honour".
However, one final charge of the theft of more than £250,000 belonging to clients of her firm of Elaine Early Co Solicitors was allowed "to remain on the books".
Defence QC John Kearney, who asked Judge Patricia Smyth for pre-sentence reports on his client, said he hoped to also provide a psychological report on her.
He said dependent on that report, further medical reports may be sought.
Sentencing at Belfast Crown Court, when an application for confiscation against Early may also be made, has been fixed for November 12.
In all Early pleaded guilty to 12 charges of fraud by abuse of position and five of transfering of criminal property between September 2014 and February 2016.
She was released on continuing bail until her sentencing.
