Nick Reiner's lawyer has given a surprising reason about why he decided to withdraw from representing the 32-year-old.
Nick is currently charged with the murders of his parents, legendary film director Rob Reiner, 78, and photographer Michele Singer Reiner, 70, after the couple were found dead at their home in Brentwood, Los Angeles last month.
According to a report from The New York Times, Rob and Michele were discovered by their daughter Romy, who alerted authorities. Nick, who was living on his parents' property at the time, was later arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder.
He was scheduled to enter a plea in an arraignment scheduled for yesterday (7 January), but was postponed when attorney Alan Jackson unexpectedly withdrew from the case.
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The LA County Medical Examiner later confirmed that Rob and Michele had both died from 'multiple sharp force injuries'.
"Circumstances beyond my control, but more importantly circumstances beyond Nick's control, have made it impossible for us to continue our representation," he told reporters at the time (via CBC).
"I'm legally and ethically prohibited from explaining the reasons why."
However, Jackson did reveal that he believed Nick was not guilty of killing his parents, adding: "Take this to the bank. Pursuant to the law in California, Nick Reiner is not guilty of murder. Print that! Print that!"
Jackson, who had previously represented Harvey Weinstein, did not elaborate on his reasons behind beliefs.
His views are not shared by LA County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, who said the court was 'fully confident' Nick would be convicted.
"We are fully confident that a jury will convict Nick Reiner beyond a reasonable doubt of the brutal murder of his parents - Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner," he told reporters outside the courthouse (via BBC).
It's understood that Nick will now be represented by public defender Kimberly Greene, with a new hearing scheduled to take place on 23 February.
READ MORE:
NICK REINER'S THREE QUESTIONS TO PARTY GUESTS BEFORE PARENTS MURDER
ROB AND MICHELE REINER'S CHILDREN RELEASE STATEMENT
Rob was best known for his work as a director on several 80s and 90s classics such as The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally and This Is Spinal Tap. He also worked as an actor, with credits including The Wolf of Wall Street and The Bear.
The couple had three children - Jake, Romy and Nick - while Rob had a second daughter, Tracy, from a previous relationship.
Nick had spoken openly about his battles with addiction in the past, with the father and son previously working on the film Being Charlie together.
Topics: US News, Crime, Celebrity News
Brenna Cooper