The defense team representing the suspect accused in the assassination case involving conservative activist Charlie Kirk is reportedly laying the foundation for a future death penalty appeal, according to a former federal prosecutor.
Judge Tony Graf is expected to rule Friday on two major defense motions filed by attorneys for suspect Tyler Robinson.
One motion seeks to delay the preliminary hearing currently scheduled for May 18, while the second asks the court to ban cameras from courtroom proceedings.
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| Tyler Robinson, who is accused of fatally shooting Charlie Kirk, appears during a hearing in Fourth District Court in Provo, Utah, on Dec. 11, 2025 |
Former assistant U.S. attorney and criminal defense lawyer Neama Rahmani told Fox News Digital the legal strategy appears focused on creating possible grounds for appeal if Robinson is ultimately sentenced to death.
Rahmani said defense lawyers are likely trying to preserve issues for both state and federal appellate courts by challenging courtroom procedures and prosecution conduct early in the case.
He noted that the judge may agree to postpone the preliminary hearing if the defense recently received a large volume of evidence and documents requiring review.
However, Rahmani suggested a six-month delay requested by the defense could be considered excessive, with the court more likely to grant a shorter extension lasting weeks or months.
The high-profile case continues to draw national attention as legal battles intensify ahead of upcoming court proceedings.