A high-powered lawyer for Nick Reiner, who is charged with murdering his Hollywood director father Rob Reiner and mother Michele, has withdrawn from the case.
It emerged that Alan Jackson would no longer represent Nick Reiner during a court hearing, though the attorney said afterwards that he believed his now-former client was innocent.
Mr Reiner, 32, did not enter a plea to charges of first-degree murder of his parents during a brief appearance at Los Angeles Superior Court.
The Reiners were found dead with stab wounds on December 14 in their Brentwood home.
Mr Jackson said outside court after Wednesday's hearing that he had left the case. Circumstances beyond my control, but more importantly circumstances beyond Nick's control, have made it impossible for us to continue our representation, he told reporters.
I'm legally and ethically prohibited from explaining the reasons why.
The lawyer, known for representing high-profile clients, added that Reiner was not guilty of murder.
However, LA County District Attorney Nathan Hochman expressed confidence that a jury would convict Nick Reiner beyond a reasonable doubt for the brutal murder of his parents.
Nick Reiner will now be represented by a public defender. To qualify for public defense, defendants must demonstrate a lack of financial means for legal representation.
Rob Reiner, 78, is well-known for directing iconic films such as 'This is Spinal Tap' and 'A Few Good Men'. Meanwhile, Michele Singer Reiner, 70, was recognized as an actress, photographer, and producer.
The next court hearing is scheduled for February 23.
