Rob Reiner murder case: son assigned new defence team after lawyer withdraws

LOS ANGELES: The son of slain Hollywood filmmaker Rob Reiner has been assigned a new defence team after his high-profile lawyer abruptly withdrew from the double-murder case.

Nick Reiner, 32, is accused of fatally stabbing his parents — actor-director Rob Reiner, 78, and photographer-producer Michele Reiner, 70 — at their Los Angeles residence on December 14. He faces two counts of first-degree murder.

During Wednesday’s court hearing, his arraignment — where he was expected to enter a plea — was postponed for the second time in three weeks after the change in legal counsel. The judge rescheduled the arraignment for February 23 and temporarily appointed a public defender.

Former prosecutor-turned-defence lawyer Alan Jackson informed the court that he was withdrawing from the case, without giving a reason.

Prosecutors say both victims died of multiple stab wounds. Authorities have so far released limited details and have not commented on a possible motive. Reports earlier suggested that Nick Reiner had argued with his parents at a holiday party a night before the killings.

If convicted, the accused could face life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty.

Rob Reiner was widely known for his roles and direction in film and television, including All in the Family and When Harry Met Sally, and was also active in U.S. politics as a Democratic Party supporter.

Web Desk