Singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, has changed his legal representation as his high-profile criminal case moves closer to trial.
The 21-year-old appeared in a Los Angeles courtroom on August 31, where his private attorneys were allowed to withdraw from the case. Burke will now be represented by Deputy Public Defender Walid Kandeel after the court determined he qualified for appointed legal counsel.
During the hearing, Burke entered a not guilty plea to all charges against him.
D4vd Faces Serious Criminal Charges
Burke is accused in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Prosecutors have charged him with murder, alleged sexual offenses involving a child under 14 and unlawful mutilation of human remains.
He had previously been represented by a prominent private legal team led by attorney Blair Berk. The lawyers confirmed that the court approved their withdrawal after determining that Burke was eligible for appointed counsel.
The reasons behind the change in legal representation were not publicly detailed.
Court Case Moves Toward Trial
The latest court appearance came after a judge ruled in July that prosecutors had presented sufficient evidence for the case to proceed toward trial.
Prosecutors allege that Rivas Hernandez was killed in April 2025. Her remains were later discovered inside a Tesla registered to Burke, according to authorities.
Burke has denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty. His new defense attorney is expected to take over preparations as the legal proceedings continue.
Next Hearing Scheduled for October
A further court hearing has been scheduled for October as both sides continue preparing for the next stage of the case. A final trial date has not yet been confirmed.
The case has drawn significant public attention because of Burke’s music career and the seriousness of the allegations. Prosecutors are continuing to pursue the charges, while his defense team is expected to challenge the evidence presented against him.
As the proceedings move forward, the court will determine the next steps in one of the most closely watched criminal cases involving a young music star.
