Nick Reiner’s murder case took a dramatic turn just moments before he was scheduled to appear in court.
During proceedings in Los Angeles County Superior Court on Wednesday, January 7, top defense attorney Alan Jackson abruptly withdrew from representing Reiner.
Jackson informed the judge that he was withdrawing as an attorney, telling the court: “We would request to withdraw as attorney of record. We have no choice but to withdraw and request to be relieved.” The judge approved the request and Reiner will now be represented by public defender Kimberly Greene. His arraignment was pushed back to February 23, marking the second delay following an earlier postponement in December.
Reiner, who appeared briefly in court, simply responded to the new date. “Um, yeah, I’m OK with that,” he said before being taken back to Twin Towers Correctional Center, where he remains held without bail.
Outside the courthouse, Jackson spoke to reporters but did not explain his sudden exit. “This morning I had to step down as counsel to Nick Reiner,” he said. “Circumstances beyond our control, but more importantly, circumstances beyond Nick’s control, have unfortunately made it impossible for us to continue our representation of Nick.” He added that he was “legally and ethically prohibited” from sharing further details.
Despite his withdrawal, Jackson emphasized his confidence in Reiner’s defense. “Be clear, be very, very clear,” he said. “My team and I remain deeply committed to Nick Reiner and his best interests.” He added: “We have learned, and you can take it to the bank, that under the law of this state, Nick Reiner is not guilty of murder – print it!”
Reiner is charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the stabbing deaths of his parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, who were found dead in their Brentwood home on Dec. 14. The Los Angeles County medical examiner ruled it a homicide caused by “multiple force injuries.” If convicted, Reiner faces life in prison without parole or the death penalty.
