Alan Jackson, the former attorney for Nick Reiner, has addressed his sudden departure from representing Reiner in a high-profile murder case involving the deaths of his parents, Rob and Michele Reiner. During an appearance on the podcast “Hot Mics With Billy Bush,” Jackson explained that he is unable to disclose the reasons for his withdrawal, which occurred on January 7, 2026.
Jackson emphasized his legal and ethical obligations, stating, “I don’t speak for Nick. I’ve said what I would be willing to say… I’m bound by legal and ethical restrictions.” When questioned about whether financial issues contributed to his decision, Jackson firmly responded, “You can’t say that something happened with the retainer because I’ve never said that.” He maintained that while circumstances compelled his exit, he did not wish to fuel speculation about the specifics.
On the steps of the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center in Los Angeles, Jackson had previously stated 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, made during Reiner’s initial arraignment hearing, aligns with Jackson’s current stance of confidentiality.
Reiner, who is now represented by a public defender, is scheduled for another arraignment hearing on February 23, 2026. He is charged with two counts of first-degree murder following the alleged stabbing of his parents on December 14, 2025. Reports indicate that he fled the scene after an argument with his parents at a holiday party hosted by Conan O’Brien.
The Los Angeles County medical examiner reported that the Reiners died from “multiple sharp force injuries.” Reiner, 32, faces serious charges, including special allegations related to multiple homicides and the alleged use of a deadly weapon, specifically a knife. If convicted, he could face a death sentence or life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, although prosecutors have yet to decide on pursuing capital punishment.
During the January press conference, Jackson asserted, “pursuant to the law of California, Nick Reiner is not guilty of murder, print that.” On the podcast, he discussed the complexities surrounding a potential insanity plea, a defense strategy not commonly utilized in the U.S. legal system. “It’s difficult for the justice system to get its arms around that. It’s a different, nuanced set of laws,” he elaborated.
As the case progresses, it remains under scrutiny, reflecting broader issues regarding legal representation and the intricacies of the criminal justice system. Jackson’s comments underscore the challenges faced by defendants and their legal teams, particularly in high-stakes cases with intense public interest.
