Prisoner Fights for $1.5 Million Trust Amid Shocking Family Tragedy
Nick Reiner is demanding access to his $1.5 million trust fund as he awaits trial for the murders of his parents, Rob and Michele Reiner.
Us Weekly can confirm that a petition was filed in court on Monday, June 8, regarding Nick obtaining the money.
The documents, obtained by Us, state that Rob and Michele established a "smaller, separate trust for his individual benefit" prior to their deaths. Half of the money was set to be distributed “outright” when Nick turned 30, and he would receive the remainder upon turning 35.
However, Nick — who turned 32 in September 2025 — has alleged that he was never given the first installment after turning 30. The documents also claim that Nick is unaware of the full amount in his trust, only that it exceeds $1.5 million.
"Nick loved his parents, and he is devastated by their deaths," the probate petition stated. "But the facts about what did and did not happen to them are not at issue in this Trust litigation."
The petition also claims that there have been "months of repeated inquiries" to the current trustee for the money. However, there has allegedly been “a shifting series of excuses and justifications,” including concerns about Nick’s “competence” to manage the trust. The petition claimed that the trustee cannot withhold funds because the trust is "irrevocable.”
Documents claim that there has been “no judicial declaration that Nick is incompetent.”
According to the petition, Nick is hoping to fund legal expenses and deposit money into his commissary account with the trust distribution.
"The stakes for Nick could not be higher," the claims continue, alleging that Nick cannot pay for "basic necessities while incarcerated" nor can he afford legal counsel.
Nick was previously represented by Alan Jackson, who withdrew from the case this past January. Court docs reveal that Jackson stepped down after “the anticipated funding did not materialize” from his trust and Nick had “repeatedly” asked for Jackson to continue representing him sans payment.
The docs allege that Nick needs the funds to be released “so that he can pay for his criminal defense.”
Jackson apparently said he “stands ready, willing, and able to resume [his] representation” and is “willing to consider reasonable alternatives to the original fee arrangement.”
Nick was arrested in December 2025 after his parents, Rob and Michele, were found dead in their Los Angeles home at ages 78 and 70, respectively. He has since denied fatally stabbing his parents.
Nick reportedly fired his psychiatrist and changed medications before his parents’ deaths. Nick has previously been candid about his past drug abuse and was reportedly diagnosed with schizophrenia.
His next court hearing is set for September 15, where prosecutors will present evidence to formally charge Nick for Rob and Michele’s murders.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
