George Zimmerman's Lawyer Wants a New Judge
The trial of George Zimmerman for the murder of Trayvon Martin has yet to begin, but there are already complications. Today, Zimmerman's defense team — led by lawyer Mark O'Mara — formally requested that the assigned judge remove herself from the case. Judge Jessica Recksiedler's husband works with a CNN analyst who has publicly commented on the Trayvon Martin case.
On Friday, [Recksiedler] said she would entertain motions to disqualify her from the trial after discovering that her husband works with Mark NeJame, an attorney whom Zimmerman approached about representing him and has since widely commented on the case in the media. NeJame also is a CNN contributor who has been asked to provide analysis on this case.
According to O'Mara, the association between the judge and NeJame is "problematic" because of the media attention the case has already received.
So far, Recksiedler's most notable act as judge has been ordering all court filings and other records sealed, as per the defense team's request. Florida law states that a judge can seal the documents in order to "prevent a serious and immediate threat" to justice.
Several media outlets, however, don't believe Recksiedler's decision was justified. Publications including The Miami Herald, The New York Times, NBC, and CNN have sued to have the documents released. It is their contention that there was no legal basis for the closure.
Of course, until the judge situation is worked out, the records hearing will have to wait.
[Image via AP]