In Los Angeles, the high-profile murder case involving Nick Reiner took a sudden turn when his defense attorney, Alan Jackson, abruptly stepped away from the case. Jackson’s withdrawal forced the court to delay Reiner’s arraignment on two counts of first-degree murder. The man accused is the son of filmmaker Rob Reiner and actress Michele Singer, both found brutally stabbed in their Los Angeles home on December 14.

Reiner hired Jackson in mid-December. The move surprised many, given Jackson’s reputation as one of Hollywood’s top defense lawyers, having represented Harvey Weinstein, Kevin Spacey, and Karen Read. But on Wednesday, without much warning, Jackson announced he was out.

“Circumstances beyond our control, but more importantly, circumstances beyond Nick’s control have dictated that,” Jackson told reporters, according to FOX News. “Sadly, it’s made it impossible for us to continue our representation of Nick. I’m legally, and I’m ethically prohibited from explaining all the reasons why.”

He didn’t back down from his previous claim that Nick Reiner is innocent. “We’ve investigated this matter top to bottom, back to front,” Jackson said. “What we’ve learned – and you can take this to the bank – is that pursuant to the laws of this state, pursuant to the law in California, Nick Reiner is not guilty of murder — Print that!”

So why walk away if he believes in his client? Jackson gave no clear explanation. Some legal analysts told Page Six that his withdrawal likely stems from a legal or ethical conflict. Others point to something more practical: money. Defending a murder case costs a fortune, and several observers noted that Reiner may not have the financial means to keep a top-tier attorney like Jackson on board.

As a result of the departure, the court postponed the arraignment to February 23. The Los Angeles County court appointed Deputy Public Defender Kimberly Greene to represent Reiner. Her office issued a statement through Los Angeles County Public Defender Ricardo D. Garcia.

“The Public Defender’s Office recognizes what an unimaginable tragedy this is for the Reiner family and the Los Angeles community,” Garcia said. “Our hearts go out to the Reiner family as they navigate this difficult time. We ask for your patience and compassion as the case moves through the legal process, as these matters are complicated and require careful consideration.”

Police discovered Rob Reiner and Michele Singer’s bodies inside their Los Angeles residence around 3:30 p.m. on December 14. Authorities later arrested Nick Reiner that evening and booked him into Los Angeles County Jail early the next morning.

The courtroom drama now continues without the powerful defense lawyer who once stood by his side. What forced him to step back? Was it money, ethics, or something more? And most importantly, will Nick Reiner find a fair defense in the complex Hollywood spotlight his family name brings?

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