Nick Reiner's Siblings No Longer Footing Legal Bill As They Intend To Leave Him Without Financial Support
By Favour Adegoke on February 24, 2026 at 2:15 PM EST
Updated on February 24, 2026 at 4:03 PM EST
Nick Reiner is continuing his double murder case with a public defender, as reports indicate his siblings will not be funding his legal expenses.
The elder brother of Romy and Jake, Nick, is accused of killing their parents, Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner, last December.
The 32-year-old has pleaded not guilty to the charges and waived his right to a speedy preliminary hearing. If found guilty, the prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty against Nick Reiner.
Nick Reiner's Siblings Are No Longer 'Involved' In His Legal Defense
In December, Nick Reiner's life was turned upside down when he became the primary suspect in the tragic murder of his parents, Rob and Michele Reiner.
Initially represented by high-profile attorney Alan Jackson, Reiner faced a major setback when Jackson unexpectedly withdrew from the case on January 7, the day scheduled for his arraignment.
Public defender Kimberly Greene was then assigned to represent the 32-year-old, and his hearing was rescheduled for February 23.
The prosecutor was then seen with Nick on the hearing day, which surprised some observers who had expected that Nick's siblings would hire another private attorney to defend their brother.
Unfortunately for Nick, his public defender will remain on the case, as TMZ spoke with a source who confirmed that his siblings have no intention of hiring a private lawyer. They will also not be covering any legal bills that may arise during the course of his prosecution.
"Nick's defense is Nick's defense. They're not involved," a source told the news outlet after the hearing.
Rob Reiner's Alleged Killer Son Entered A Not Guilty Plea At His Arraignment
During his February 23 hearing, Nick Reiner entered a plea to the charges against him.
He faces two counts of first-degree murder with special circumstances, meaning prosecutors could seek the death penalty if they pursue capital punishment.
For the charges, Nick entered a not guilty plea and waived his right to a speedy preliminary hearing. This meant the court was not required to schedule the hearing within ten court days or sixty calendar days.
Ultimately, the preliminary hearing was set for April 29, as requested by Greene. However, it is possible that more time may be sought, given the workload of the typical public defender.
After the hearing, Nick was transported back to the Twin Towers Correctional Facility, where he remains in custody during the ongoing prosecution.
Prosecution Says Death Penalty Is Still On The Table
Despite having had weeks to reconsider, the prosecution still intends to seek the death penalty against Nick if he is found guilty.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman confirmed his department's stance in a media statement following Nick's arraignment.
Hochman also noted that the case is proceeding on schedule, although the coroner's report is still pending.
Meanwhile, speculation continues that Nick's defense team may structure his case around an insanity plea.
Rob And Michele Reiner's Son Was Diagnosed With Schizophrenia
Earlier reports had indicated that Nick was diagnosed with schizophrenia and was undergoing treatment for the condition.
However, a new set of prescription medications reportedly caused erratic behavior in the days leading up to the murder of his parents.
He is also said to be aware that he is being accused of killing his parents, but believes he is in prison because of a conspiracy against him.
Nick Reiner Has Received No Visits From Family Since His Incarceration
Upon his arrival at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility, Nick was placed on suicide watch, a standard precaution in high-profile cases.
He has since been removed from suicide watch and is now eligible for visits, although no family members have come forward.
Sources who spoke to Rob Shuter's #ShuterScoop reported that the Reiners are keeping their distance as they are still struggling to process the allegations against him.
"This isn't a misunderstanding or a minor scandal," an insider told the outlet. "He killed their parents. That changes everything."
"They're mourning their parents while also trying to comprehend what he's done. You don't just walk into a visiting room after that," another insider remarked,
Some, allegedly, also feel it is too soon to pay him a visit, given the gravity of the accusations.
"It's too soon — and for some of them, it may always be too soon," said one insider.
