A 2029 trial would prolong hardship for children, Erika Kirk blasts absurd bid by Charlie's accused killer to delay trial

Defense seeks more preparation time

The defense team says its work will involve investigating the accused man’s background, reviewing possible mitigating factors and selecting a jury. It argues those tasks could take several more years, supporting a 2029 trial date.

Widow’s lawyers oppose the schedule

Erika Kirk’s attorneys have asked the court to begin the trial in October 2027. Her lawyer, Jeffrey Neiman, said a longer delay would extend the suffering of the couple’s two children.

Neiman wrote that the children, who were one and three when their father was killed, would be six and eight by the time a trial under the defense proposal ended. He also accused the defendant of trying deliberately to slow the proceedings.

Judge to consider a trial date

Judge Tony Graf of Utah District Court is scheduled to hold a hearing Friday on when the trial should take place. The competing proposals put the timing of the case before the court.