McNeil Trial Date Set, Gets No New Attorney

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Mike McNeil, courtesy Auburn Police Department

A Lee County, Alabama judge has denied Mike McNeil's request for a new attorney, just days before his scheduled trial for armed robbery back in 2011.

The former Auburn University safety appeared before Judge Chris Hughes in day two of a status hearing.

During day one of his hearing yesterday, McNeil's attorney, Ben Hand, told the court he received a letter from McNeil earlier in the week informing him that McNeil was no longer needing him as his attorney. Hand, then, wanted to file a motion of withdrawal.

McNeil told the court he felt, "uncomfortable" in the correspondence, having Hand represent him. But Judge Hughes denied the request by McNeil.

"As long as the judge says I am on the case, I will do everything I can to defend my client," added Hand after the decision was sent down bu Judge Hughes.

Judge Hughes told McNeil that his trial will begin as scheduled on Monday.

McNeil's defense also made a motion for a change of venue- which Hughes will rule on next week.
Here's discussion a little behind the update by Bruce Feldman and Allie LaForce...
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