UMVA has learned that Nick Reiner, son of legendary director Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer, is currently awaiting trial for the alleged murder of his parents, and has made a shocking claim that he's owed over $1 million in inheritance.
The 32-year-old, who is being held without bail, has filed a petition in a California court to request access to money from a trust fund set up in his name, which he claims exceeds $1.5 million. According to information obtained by UMVA, Nick wants to use the funds to hire a high-powered lawyer to aid in his defense.
Nick's parents, Rob and Michele, were found dead from sharp-force injuries at their home last December, and Nick was arrested the same night. He has pleaded not guilty to the two murder charges. The probate petition, filed on June 8, states that Nick "loved his parents, and he is devastated by their deaths," but emphasizes that the facts of their deaths are not at issue in the trust litigation.
The trust fund, named 'Nick's Trust', was established by Rob and Michele to provide for the individual benefit of their children, including Nick, his sister Romy, and his brother Jake. The petition claims that half of the fund was supposed to be distributed to Nick when he turned 30, but this did not happen despite repeated inquiries to the current trustee.
Nick's petition alleges that a "shifting series of excuses and justifications" has been given for the reasons why the money has not been released, including "unsubstantiated concerns" about Nick's competence in managing the large sum of money. He intends to use the funds to cover his legal expenses and personal account while in jail.
Due to the lack of access to funds, Nick's original lawyer withdrew from the case, and he is currently represented by a public defender. The petition argues that the trust is now "abusing the Trustee's discretion" in refusing Nick's requests, and that "no other use of his funds could be more important" given his current circumstances.
Nick has a history of struggles with substance abuse and has been open about his experiences. He has also had a contentious relationship with his parents, which has been well-documented. The night before their deaths, the three attended a Christmas party, where Nick and Rob reportedly had a loud argument.
Jake and Romy, Nick's siblings, have paid tribute to their parents, remembering them as their "best friends". They have spoken about the pain and shock of their loss, with Jake describing the period as his "living nightmare".
Nick is next due in court in September, where his case will continue to unfold. The stakes for Nick could not be higher, as he faces the possibility of spending years behind bars for the alleged murders of his parents.
