Nick Reiner, accused of killing his parents, filmmaker Rob Reiner and photographer-producer Michele Singer Reiner, will return to court Feb. 23 after his defense lawyer abruptly withdrew at a Los Angeles hearing Wednesday and public defenders took over the case.
Attorney Alan Jackson told Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Theresa McGonigle that his team had “no choice” but to step aside, then declined to explain why, saying he could not discuss the reasons. Outside the courthouse, Jackson still made a forceful public claim about his former client, saying that “pursuant to the law in California, Nick Reiner is not guilty of murder.” Reiner, 32, appeared behind glass in a custody area and spoke only to confirm he agreed to the delay.
Deputy Public Defender Kimberly Greene was assigned to represent Reiner, who remains jailed without bail. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said prosecutors are “fully confident” a jury will convict Reiner “beyond a reasonable doubt,” and said the state will provide what the new defense team needs as the case proceeds.
Prosecutors have charged Reiner with two counts of first-degree murder. The case includes special-circumstance allegations tied to multiple murders and an allegation that he used a knife, which can increase sentencing exposure. Prosecutors have said they have not made a final decision on seeking the death penalty; life in prison without the possibility of parole is another potential outcome if he is convicted as charged.
A spokesperson for the Reiner family said they have “the utmost trust in the legal process” and will not comment further while the case is pending. In court, Jackson said the defense investigation remains active and referenced outstanding subpoenas; the judge agreed to seal the list for now.
Rob and Michele Reiner were found dead inside their Brentwood home on Dec. 14. The Los Angeles County medical examiner said both died from multiple sharp-force injuries. Police and prosecutors have released few details about a motive. Nick Reiner was arrested later that day and was charged on Dec. 16, as the case continues to draw attention across Hollywood and the legal community.
