In Los Angeles, Nick Reiner has utilized funds from a trust established by his parents, whom he is accused of killing, to help pay for his defense. On Monday, probate lawyers revealed the situation in court. Reiner, aged 32, was not present while discussions took place regarding his entitlement to the $1.63 million trust fund set up by celebrated director Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner.
The couple was found fatally stabbed in their Brentwood home in December. Reiner has pleaded not guilty to charges of murder, with additional accusations of multiple murders and lying in wait.
Anita Wu, representing Reiner’s probate interests, disclosed that $200,000 of the trust has already been spent. This sum includes expenses for Alan Jackson, Reiner’s previous defense attorney. Jackson, a well-known defense lawyer, withdrew from the case in January due to unspecified “circumstances beyond our control.” Despite this, Jackson appeared in court with Wu on Monday, indicating a possible return to Reiner’s legal team if financial issues are resolved.
A trustee now overseeing the trust fund opposes any disbursement to Reiner, referencing California’s “slayer statute.” This law prevents individuals who commit murder from benefitting financially from their crimes. The trust was intended to provide Reiner with the full amount at age 35, with an option to withdraw $558,000 at age 30. However, Reiner chose not to take this early sum.
Reiner’s defense team emphasizes that he is entitled to the funds, arguing that he hasn’t been convicted in relation to his parents’ deaths. “The main takeaway is that Nick Reiner is entitled to his money and funds, which is what this process concerns,” Jackson told reporters post-hearing.
Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Ruben Garcia did not make any rulings during the session. He instructed both parties to reconvene on October 23.