A former Bristol attorney pleaded guilty Wednesday to one count of mail fraud related to the theft of $169,000 from clients while she served as a court-appointed conservator.

Conservators are appointed by the probate court to oversee the financial or personal affairs of adults incapable of managing their finances or personal care. But according to the Office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut, an officer of the court used the position to help herself to the wards’ assets.