Estate Planning

Pardoning for Billy the Kid

By Hull and Hull LLP

For some, the name ‘Billy the Kid' may conjure images of an old western film, likely because that's how he became a household name. Yet, Billy was a real outlaw in the late 1880s who died at the hands of Pat Garrett nearly 130 years ago. 

A recent article in the Toronto Star notes that a posthumous pardon for Billy the Kid may be in the works in New Mexico. Billy was convicted of murdering a sheriff during the course of a feud between two rival factions of cattle herders, both asserting their right to control cattle lands in New Mexico in 1878.   The legend continues that Billy was held in jail following the feud, but he managed to escape. Pat Garrett chased down bill and allegedly shot and killed him.

In more recent history, some have contended that Billy (although maybe I should say, the 'real Billy') actually got away, and that Garrett killed the wrong man. Garrett's family has taken issue with these allegations, and the attempts to pardon Billy the Kid.

The pardon has gained favour with some in reliance on the story that Billy had made a deal with law enforcement, wherein he testified against another outlaw in exchange for a pardon. It seems such pardon was never granted.

Garrett's family, in an effort to uphold their family honour, have commenced a petition against the pardon of Billy the Kid. Some have argued that the pardon is a publicity stunt and others that it is long overdue. Whatever the truth about the deal between Billy and law enforcement, having a legacy worth fighting for is what we all strive to achieve; at least two people who died over a century ago have created such a legacy.

Until Tomorrow,

Nadia M. Harasymowycz

Full post as published by Toronto Estate Law Blog on August 09, 2010 (boomark / email).