The lead attorney for convicted governor Rod Blagojevich said today that he was prepared to work for free on the retrial, but the decision ultimately depends on what is best for his client.
"What we're going to do, now that we know when the case is going to go to trial, and now that we know what the rules are about how many lawyers, and we know how many defendants there are in the case, we're going to meet with the governor and decide what is best for him," said Adam, speaking to reporters in the lobby of the Dirksen Federal Court building. "That's the only decision that is important."
Adam added that, contrary to media reports, no lawyers have withdrawn from the case. He also said he was prepared to represent Blagojevich for free if need be. That scenario is unlikely.
Moments before, Judge James Zagel ruled that the defense was allowed to appoint only two new lawyers for the retrial.
"With all due respect, I think the judge is wrong on that," Adam said, arguing that the case involves "millions" of documents and 5500 hours of tape. "You think it's only a couple of lawyers. We had an office of 20 people, 15 of whom were lawyers."
Adam said he had not yet talked to Blagojevich, and didn't know how the convicted governor felt about any aspects of the case, including the dismissal of charges against his brother.
Adam did say that he has not and will not be discussing a plea deal with his client.
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"The man is frustrated because he is innocent," Adam said. "In his own mind, and in our mind, he is innocent."
Adam reiterated his complaints about the government's case, saying they should reveal who they're going to call to the stand for the retrial so that the defense can prepare.
During the original trial, the prosecution didn't call several high profile witnesses, including Sen. Dick Durbin and Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr.
