Why Nick Reiner's lawyer Alan Jackson withdrew murder case as experts cite possible conflicts

Legal experts are weighing in on why Alan Jackson, the high-profile defence lawyer representing Nick Reiner, withdrew from the murder case, telling the court he had “no choice but to withdraw” due to “circumstances beyond our control” and “beyond Nick’s control”.

Jackson made the statement during Reiner’s arraignment on Wednesday, without offering further detail. His withdrawal prompted speculation within legal circles, with several attorneys suggesting an ethical conflict as the most likely reason.

California and New York entertainment lawyer Lisa Bonner spoke to Page Six saying that the wording used by Jackson strongly indicated a conflict of interest. “If you look at his phrases, ‘We have no choice’ and ‘circumstances beyond our control,’ that’s likely an ethical or legal conflict. I would most likely say it’s a conflict of interest,” she said. Bonner explained that a lawyer must withdraw if their firm has previously represented someone connected to the case, such as a witness or family member.

After the hearing, Jackson told reporters that he and his team remained “deeply, deeply committed” to Reiner and insisted that the legal process would reveal the facts. He added: “We’ve learned, and you can take this to the bank, is that pursuant to the law in this state, Nick Reiner is not guilty of murder — print that!”

Bonner said the statement reflected the presumption of innocence. “He’s reaffirming the presumption of innocence. He’s not gotten any admission of guilt from Nick,” she said.

Beverly Hills defence attorney Adam Michael Sacks also said a conflict of interest was the most probable explanation and suggested Reiner would likely seek private representation rather than rely on a public defender. Others have speculated that financial issues may have played a role, noting the high cost of retaining Jackson.

Los Angeles County public defender Kimberly Greene has now been appointed to represent Reiner. His arraignment was rescheduled for 23 February. Reiner is charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the stabbing deaths of his parents and is being held without bail.