Nick Reiner Seeks Trust Funds to Rehire Defense Attorney Amid Murder Charges
Nick Reiner, 32, is seeking access to $1.7 million in trust funds to rehire defense attorney Alan Jackson as he faces two counts of first-degree murder for allegedly stabbing his parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, according to a petition filed in California probate court. The trust, established at his birth, was set to distribute half of the funds when Reiner turned 30 in 2023, with the remainder due at 35, the filing states.
Trust Fund Distributions Under Legal Dispute
Reiner’s petition claims the trust’s terms mandate unconditional distributions, with the first half supposed to be released on September 14, 2023. However, Reiner alleges the outgoing trustee, Paul Kanin, has withheld the funds, citing concerns about his competency and California’s “slayer statute,” which bars individuals from benefiting financially from a killing. Kanin resigned in August 2023, with Jodi Montgomery, a former conservator for Britney Spears, set to succeed him.
Public Defender Rejects Trustee’s Overture
Montgomery’s lawyer sought to meet with Reiner while he is in custody to discuss his case and review trust funds, according to email attachments cited in the petition. However, Reiner’s public defender rejected the request, warning that any discussion could waive attorney-client privileges, potentially allowing prosecutors to use his statements against him. Montgomery and Kanin did not respond to requests for comment.
Defense Attorney’s Role in the Case
Alan Jackson, a former Los Angeles County prosecutor, initially agreed to represent Reiner in December 2023, after family members promised to act as third-party payors. However, Jackson withdrew in January 2024, citing lack of funding. In a declaration, Jackson stated he remained willing to resume representation if trust funds became available, emphasizing his prior work on the case would allow for efficient reengagement.
Legal Arguments Over Trust Distribution
Reiner’s new trust lawyer, Anita P. Wu, argues the trustee’s refusal to release funds is an abuse of discretion. She contends Reiner is not “incompetent” under the trust’s terms and that the money should have been paid two years ago. The petition highlights Reiner’s need to pay legal fees and basic expenses, including jail commissary costs, which he claims remain unpaid despite a promise from the trustee.
Court Proceedings and Next Steps
Reiner, who pleaded not guilty in February 2024, is due back in court on September 15 for a probable cause hearing. The petition stresses that the trust litigation does not address the facts of the alleged murders, which are separate from the legal dispute over fund distribution. Prosecutors will present evidence and call witnesses to determine if the case proceeds to trial.