Attorney Alan Jackson recently addressed his sudden withdrawal from representing Nick Reiner, who faces first-degree murder charges in connection with the deaths of his parents, Rob and Michele Reiner. During an appearance on the podcast, *Hot Mics With Billy Bush*, Jackson stated that he is unable to disclose specific reasons for his departure from the case on January 7, citing legal and ethical constraints.
When questioned about whether financial issues played a role in his decision, Jackson firmly refuted such claims. “You can’t say that something happened with the retainer because I’ve never said that,” he asserted. He emphasized that while circumstances hindered his ability to continue representing Reiner, he did not wish to incite speculation about the reasons behind his exit.
Jackson reiterated his earlier statement made outside the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center, where he initially announced his withdrawal. He indicated that “circumstances beyond our control, but more importantly, circumstances beyond Nick’s control, have dictated that, sadly, it’s made it impossible for us to continue our representation of Nick.” This statement, he noted, is bound by confidentiality rules that prevent him from sharing further details.
Currently, Nick Reiner is set to be represented by a public defender, with his next arraignment hearing scheduled for February 23. Prosecutors allege that on December 14, 2025, Reiner stabbed his 78-year-old father and 70-year-old mother. Reports indicate that he fled the scene after an argument with his parents during a holiday gathering at the home of comedian Conan O’Brien. Law enforcement arrested him later that evening near the University of Southern California.
The Los Angeles County medical examiner has noted that Reiner’s parents succumbed to “multiple sharp force injuries.” Facing two counts of first-degree murder with special circumstances related to multiple homicides, Reiner could face severe penalties, including a potential death sentence or life imprisonment without parole. Prosecutors have also indicated a special allegation concerning the use of a deadly weapon—a knife—in the commission of the crime.
During the press conference on January 7, Jackson emphasized that under California law, “Nick Reiner is not guilty of murder, print that.” He also discussed the complexities surrounding a potential insanity plea, explaining that such defenses are infrequently employed within the U.S. legal framework. “It’s difficult for the justice system to get its arms around that. It’s a different, nuanced set of laws,” he said.
As the case progresses, the legal community and the public remain attentive to developments, particularly regarding the implications of Jackson’s withdrawal and the upcoming proceedings.
