Today, Judge Perry announced closing arguments will be postponed until Monday so he has time to consider dismissal motions made by defense attorneys representing the Playboy model’s boyfriend and two doctors.  According to the Associated Press, the key issue is whether or not Smith legitimately sought relief from chronic pain or was simply addicted to drugs.  Judge Perry “spent the morning finalizing jury instructions and told prosecutors they should try to pare down the overt acts they have alleged against the defendants. He said it is essential to simplify the case to prevent jurors from becoming confused.” Stay tuned for the latest on final arguments in the trial!  

Howard K. Stern’s heavily publicized trial for criminal drug facilitation – followed daily on this blog – is not the only legal matter weighing on his mind. Earlier this summer Stern filed an appeal to the Supreme Court asking for review of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals’ March decision which ruled that Smith’s late husband, J. Howard Marshall II, provided for the model during their brief, 14 month marriage but did not include her in his estate plans. This morning, the Supremes granted a writ of certiorari and will hear arguments on the appeal. Check back soon for more details!