In Los Angeles, Nick Reiner is using funds from a trust set up by his parents, whom he’s accused of murdering, to pay for his legal defense. He claims entitlement to more funds, as revealed by probate lawyers in court.

Reiner, 32, was absent from the court proceedings. Discussion centered on his right to access $1.63 million held in a trust fund created by acclaimed director Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner. The couple was fatally stabbed in their Brentwood home last December. Reiner has entered a plea of not guilty to charges of murder and additional allegations of multiple murders and lying in wait.

Anita Wu, representing Reiner in probate matters, stated that $200,000 of the trust has been used, including payments to his former defense lawyer, Alan Jackson. Jackson stepped down from Reiner’s case in January due to unspecified reasons. However, Jackson was present in court recently, indicating a possibility of rejoining Reiner’s defense if financial matters are resolved.

The trustee now managing the trust fund opposes releasing further funds to Reiner, citing California’s “slayer statute,” which prevents individuals from benefiting financially from their crimes. Reiner was slated to inherit the full $1.63 million at 35 years old. At 30, he was eligible for $558,000 but chose not to withdraw those funds.

“The main thing to take away from today’s hearing is that Nick Reiner is entitled to his own money, his own funds, and that’s what this process is about,” Jackson expressed to reporters outside of court.

Judge Ruben Garcia of the Los Angeles County Superior Court did not deliver any rulings during the session and scheduled another hearing for October 23.