> At a Glance
> – Nick Reiner, 32, appeared in court Jan. 7 for the stabbing deaths of parents Rob and Michele Reiner
> – Defense attorney Alan Jackson withdrew just before arraignment, forcing a delay
> – New date set for Feb. 23; public defender Kimberly Greene now represents him
> – Why it matters: The high-profile case could see the death penalty or life without parole under special-circumstance charges
The Reiner family reiterated trust in the legal system Wednesday as Nick Reiner faced court for the first time since being charged with two counts of first-degree murder.
Courtroom Shock
Jackson’s sudden withdrawal moments before the scheduled arraignment stunned the downtown Los Angeles courtroom. After a private sidebar with the judge, Jackson told the court his team had “no choice” but to step aside.
Nick waived his right to proceed that day; no plea was entered.
What Happens Next
- Public defender Kimberly Greene takes over the defense
- Arraignment rescheduled for Feb. 23
- Prosecutors are pursuing special-circumstance allegations, opening the door to life without parole or capital punishment
Family Statements
A family spokesperson said:
> “They have the utmost trust in the legal process and will not comment further on matters related to the legal proceedings.”
L.A. County Public Defender Ricardo D. Garcia added:
> “We recognize what an unimaginable tragedy this is for the Reiner family and the Los Angeles community. Our hearts go out to them.”
Key Takeaways
- Attorney swap delays plea entry; trial timeline now unclear
- Special-circumstance charges raise stakes to maximum penalties
- Siblings Jake and Romy continue to ask for privacy and compassion
With a new defender in place, all eyes turn to the Feb. 23 arraignment and the next chapter in a case that has gripped Hollywood and beyond.
