Challenge by Simpson Lawyers Removes Judge
Saying their client believed he cannot have a “fair and impartial trial” before Santa Monica Superior Court Judge Alan B. Haber, O.J. Simpson’s lawyers on Wednesday exercised their right to challenge one judge and had Haber removed from the civil trial.
Haber has been presiding over pretrial matters in the civil case, in which Simpson is accused of being responsible for the wrongful deaths of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Lyle Goldman.
Court officials said the presiding judge in Santa Monica would name a new judge next week. The trial is scheduled to begin Sept. 9.
Daniel Petrocelli, lead lawyer for Fred Goldman, expressed disappointment about the defense move. He said Judge Haber “has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the case” and “has been fair and evenhanded to all sides” while presiding over pretrial matters.
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