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Defense attorney withdraws from Nick Reiner case
Prominent Los Angeles lawyer Alan Jackson has stepped down as legal counsel for Nick Reiner, who stands accused of fatally stabbing his parents-renowned filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer Reiner-in their Brentwood home last month.
Courtroom developments
The withdrawal came to light during a brief hearing at Los Angeles Superior Court on Wednesday. Reiner, 32, did not enter a plea to first-degree murder charges. When the judge asked if he understood he was waiving that right, Reiner replied, "Yeah, I agree with it."
Reiner smiled intermittently while speaking with sheriff's deputies during the proceeding. His newly assigned public defender, Kimberly Greene, requested additional time to prepare before her client enters a plea. The next hearing is scheduled for 23 February.
Lawyer cites unexplained circumstances
Outside the courthouse, Jackson told reporters that "circumstances beyond my control-and, more importantly, beyond Nick's control-have made it impossible for us to continue our representation." He declined to elaborate, citing legal and ethical constraints.
"I remain convinced Nick is innocent of these charges."
Alan Jackson, former defense attorney
Prosecution expresses confidence
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman countered Jackson's assertion, stating that prosecutors are "fully confident a jury will convict Nick Reiner beyond a reasonable doubt of the brutal murder of his parents."
Financial questions linger
Rob Reiner's estimated net worth of $200 million raises questions about who initially funded his son's high-powered defense. To qualify for a court-appointed attorney, defendants must demonstrate they cannot afford private representation. Nick Reiner has a brother and sister, but their involvement in legal expenses remains unclear.
Victims' legacies
Rob Reiner, 78, directed several iconic films, including This Is Spinal Tap, Misery, and A Few Good Men. Michele Singer Reiner, 70, was an actress, photographer, and producer.
The couple were discovered with stab wounds in their bedroom on 14 December.
