Document: Scott Peterson Out of Legal Funds

R E D W O O D   C I T Y, Calif., July 29, 2004 -- Nine weeks into his murder trial, Scott Peterson has run out of money and needs taxpayers' help to pay his legal fees, according to a petition filed by his high-priced lawyer, Mark Geragos.

Geragos says Peterson and his family have no money left to hire experts to challenge upcoming prosecution witnesses and has filed a formal request to get government funds for his defense. A closed hearing on Geragos' request was held Wednesday at Stanislaus County Superior Court in Modesto, ABC News has learned.

Peterson is accused of killing his wife Laci and the couple's unborn child. His murder trial — which is being held in San Mateo County's Redwood City, about 70 miles from Peterson's residence in Modesto — nearly ground to a halt this week when Geragos said there was no money left for Peterson's defense.

Some prosecution witnesses were dropped from the schedule this week after Geragos made his plea. Expert witnesses can charge thousands of dollars for their work and testimony. A single DNA test can cost more than $10,000.

Legal experts say it is common for defense attorneys to ask the court for money, but it is unusual for the request to come so late into a trial. In order to persuade the court that Stanislaus County, where Peterson lives and was originally charged, should contribute to Peterson's defense costs, Geragos would have to show that his client is "indigent" and needs money to pay for experts and other expenses to get a proper defense.

This is the second time Geragos has filed a petition asking Stanislaus County to pay for Peterson's legal bills, ABC News has learned. His first request was turned down, and if this most recent petition is rejected, the judge could declare a mistrial.

However, sources told ABC News, the judge would likely force Geragos to stay on and complete the case.

‘Whatever It Takes’

The witness list in the murder trial is under seal but ABC News has learned that the prosecution had asked accounting experts to testify that the Petersons had financial troubles.