Donna Adelson Returns to Court with New Legal Team, Trial Proposed for June

The Trial Of Donna Adelson | The Murder Of Dan Markel

Donna Adelson, accused of orchestrating the 2014 murder-for-hire of Florida State University law professor Dan Markel, appeared in court with her new defense team after her trial was delayed by conflict-of-interest issues. The appearance marked her first since a September postponement of the high-profile case.
Accompanied by her new attorneys, former Circuit Judge Jackie Fulford and Tallahassee lawyer Josh Zelman, Adelson appeared before Leon Circuit Judge Stephen Everett. Both attorneys assured the court there were no conflicts of interest in their representation. Adelson’s previous legal team had been disqualified due to conflicts involving her son Charlie Adelson, who is serving a life sentence for organizing the murder.
Fulford and Zelman took over the case in October and have begun addressing the substantial legal hurdles that come with such a transition. Fulford, drawing on her experience as a circuit judge and interim state attorney, expressed confidence in their ability to prepare for the trial despite limited access to discovery materials. “The state attorney’s office has agreed to provide us with electronic copies of all deposition transcripts,” Zelman noted.
Adelson, who appeared in a purple jail jumpsuit and spoke only to her attorneys, faces charges of first-degree murder, conspiracy, and solicitation. Prosecutors allege she hired hitmen through her son Charlie Adelson to kill Dan Markel during a contentious custody dispute involving her grandchildren.
During the hearing, Fulford proposed a trial window between June 16 and July 2, noting that all parties involved, including witnesses, could be available during that time. Judge Everett emphasized the importance of setting a firm trial date, citing the logistical complexities of moving prisoners and ensuring the presence of witnesses. “When that trial date is set, it is going to be firm,” he stated.
The court set the next case management conference for February 11, when discovery is expected to be completed and deadlines for trial preparation finalized. Local attorney Don Pumphrey commented on the challenges of picking up a case at this stage, likening it to “painting in the blind.” However, he acknowledged the strengths of the new legal team, describing Fulford as a “strategist” and a strong choice for the defense.
The case remains one of significant public interest, with Adelson being one of five individuals arrested in connection with Markel’s murder. Her son Charlie Adelson and three others are already serving prison sentences, leaving her as the final defendant to face trial.
Judge Everett also addressed any potential conflicts arising from Fulford’s prior judicial role presiding over Markel probate matters. After reviewing the matter, he found no issues that would interfere with her representation.
The court’s focus now shifts to ensuring all materials are handed over and preparations are completed in time for the June trial window, bringing the case closer to resolution after a decade of legal battles and public scrutiny.
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