Killer Psyche Nick Reiner - The Murders of Rob & Michelle Reiner: A Conversation with Josh Ritter
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Mar 17, 2026 Josh Ritter, a former LA prosecutor and legal analyst, explains arraignment, insanity defenses, competency standards, and death-penalty considerations in the high-profile Reiner homicides. Brief takes on conservatorship history, evidence timelines, and how post-crime behavior shapes legal strategy. Fast-paced legal breakdown with clear, concise explanations.
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Plead Not Guilty To Trigger Discovery
- At arraignment the defendant is formally read charges and usually pleads not guilty to start discovery.
- Joshua Ritter explains most enter not guilty to begin receiving the prosecution's evidence and trigger discovery rights.
Special Circumstances Can Trigger Death Penalty But Moratorium Exists
- Prosecutors may seek the death penalty via 'special circumstances' like multiple murders or lying in wait, but California has an execution moratorium.
- Ritter notes double homicide and possible lying-in-wait facts could qualify, though executions are presently paused.
Trust Structures May Prevent Access To Family Wealth For Defense
- Wealth in a family doesn't guarantee a defendant private counsel; trusts and conditions often restrict access to funds.
- Ritter suggests Nick likely qualified for the public defender because his access to parental wealth is controlled or limited by trustees.