Accused murderer seeks parents' trust fund for defense

Nick Reiner, who stands accused of murdering his parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, has petitioned a Los Angeles court to access funds from a trust his parents set up for him. Reiner claims he needs the money to finance his legal defense, as he currently lacks other financial resources.

The 32-year-old defendant argues that the trust funds should have been disbursed to him when he turned 30. His legal team, initially led by renowned attorney Alan Jackson, reportedly dissolved after the trust administrator refused to pay Jackson's fees. Reiner is now represented by a public defender.

Reiner faces two charges of first-degree murder. The case carries "special circumstances," making him eligible for the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole. He pleaded not guilty in April, and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for September.

Rob Reiner, the director of 'When Harry Met Sally,' and photographer Michele Singer Reiner were found stabbed to death in their Brentwood home on December 14. Their son, Nick, was arrested the following day. Reports from December indicated Reiner had a history of schizophrenia and had struggled with addiction.