High-Profile Attorney Abruptly Withdraws from Nick Reiner Case, Delaying Arraignment in Parents' Murder

Los Angeles, January 8, 2026 — High-profile defense attorney Alan Jackson withdrew from representing Nick Reiner moments into proceedings on Wednesday, forcing a postponement of the arraignment in the shocking double murder case involving Hollywood icon Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner.

Nick Reiner, 32, appeared in Los Angeles Superior Court dressed in brown jail garb, with a newly shaved head, and was expected to enter a plea to two counts of first-degree murder with special circumstances. Instead, the hearing quickly shifted when Jackson informed Judge Theresa McGonigle that his firm had "no choice" but to withdraw due to "circumstances beyond our control, and more importantly, circumstances beyond Nick's control."

The judge approved the withdrawal, assigned Deputy Public Defender Kimberly Greene to the case, and rescheduled the arraignment for February 23. Reiner, who has been held without bail since his arrest in December, briefly agreed to the delay when asked by the judge, responding, "Uh, yeah, I agree."

Speaking to reporters outside the courthouse, Jackson — known for representing clients such as Harvey Weinstein, Kevin Spacey, and Karen Read — emphasized that he was "legally and ethically prohibited" from explaining the reasons for his departure. However, he made a pointed declaration of his former client's innocence: "We've investigated this matter top to bottom... Pursuant to the law in California, Nick Reiner is not guilty of murder. Print that!"

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman struck a contrasting tone, stating his office is "fully confident that a jury will convict Nick Reiner beyond a reasonable doubt of the brutal murder of his parents" and will ensure the new defense team receives all necessary evidence.

Legal observers speculate the sudden switch to a public defender could indicate financial constraints or strategic disagreements, though no official reason has been disclosed. Reiner had recently been removed from suicide watch but remains in solitary confinement.

The case stems from the fatal stabbings of Rob Reiner, the acclaimed director behind classics like The Princess Bride and When Harry Met Sally, and Michele Singer Reiner, a photographer and producer, in their Brentwood home last month. Sources have described a history of family tension, including reports of psychiatric and substance abuse issues.

A family spokesperson reiterated trust in the legal process and declined further comment. The delay marks the second postponement of Reiner's arraignment, underscoring the complexity of one of Los Angeles' most high-profile homicide cases in recent years.

17GEN4.com