Lawyer's Death Brings Personal Sadness To Dallas County Judge

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DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM/AP) - Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins said the passing of Dallas lawyer Brian Loncar is difficult news on a personal level.  

Jenkins said Loncar, who was found unresponsive Sunday morning in the front seat of his vehicle in front of his downtown law office, was a longtime family friend and colleague.

Jenkins said in a statement:

"For years, I have known Brian Loncar as a close friend and a gifted lawyer, a man who had a heart as big as Texas. Many times, I've seen him help people in need, even strangers he'd heard about or met on the street. Brian didn't just believe in second chances. He believed in grace and he used his power and means to offer a hand up to turn around lives. Brian was gracious, realistic, compassionate and forgiving of others. As a lawyer, he took on cases other lawyers wouldn't - because he was a fierce fighter for justice and didn't want it be denied to people solely on the basis of their financial means.

"He was whip smart, a natural leader and a master at quickly understanding people and marketing. Brian used those skills to build one of the most successful practices in the country and his team of dedicated professionals at Loncar & Associates P.C. remains devoted to the pursuit of justice for the clients of the firm.

"Brian was strong and resilient. Several years ago, he was in a horrific wreck that crushed his pelvis and caused massive injuries. He refused to be defeated and rehabbed through the pain with a tenacity few people possess. He loved his family more than anything. Grace's death broke his heart.

"Brian's friends and colleagues are now working hard to support his family in this extraordinary time of grief and sadness. I am hopeful the Dallas community will also stand behind this special family."

Loncar's death came two days after the funeral for his 16-year-old daughter, who killed herself on Nov. 26. According to Grace Loncar's obituary, she had battled depression.

Brian Loncar, 56, was well-known in Texas for his television advertisements, in which he branded himself the "strong arm." His firm has offices across the state.

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