American singer, D4vd, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, is now being represented by the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office after his high-profile defence lawyers withdrew from his murder case.

Burke, 21, appeared in a Los Angeles court on Monday and pleaded not guilty to charges arising from the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.

The singer had previously been represented by celebrity attorneys Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski and Regina Peter. The lawyers confirmed that the court approved their request to withdraw from the case and appointed the public defender’s office as Burke’s new legal counsel.

In a statement, the former defence team said Burke qualified for appointed representation and expressed continued support for him as the case proceeds.

Deputy Public Defender Walid Kandeel said the new legal team would carefully examine the evidence and provide Burke with a full defence.

The change in representation could affect the pace of proceedings, with Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman indicating that the new lawyers may require additional time to review the evidence.

Hochman said prosecutors were prepared to continue with the case but acknowledged that the change in defence counsel could result in a request for additional time or a motion seeking dismissal.

Burke has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder, mutilation of human remains and child sexual abuse charges in connection with Hernandez’s death.

Prosecutors allege that Burke killed Hernandez following years of sexual abuse and subsequently dismembered her body. They further allege that the teenager was stabbed after she travelled to Burke’s Hollywood residence in an Uber he had arranged.

According to prosecutors, Hernandez had threatened to expose her relationship with Burke and potentially harm his music career.

During a preliminary hearing, prosecutors presented messages allegedly sent by Hernandez to Burke in April 2025 following an argument concerning his friendship with another girl. One of the messages reportedly contained a threat against Burke and his career.

Hernandez’s remains were discovered in September 2025 inside a Tesla registered to an address associated with Burke.

A judge ruled last month that Burke should stand trial on the murder charge.

The murder allegation includes special circumstances relating to financial gain, which could make Burke eligible for the death penalty if convicted.

Burke’s next pre-trial hearing is scheduled for October 19.

Berk, who previously led his defence team, has represented several prominent figures, including actors Mel Gibson and Lindsay Lohan, singer Britney Spears and film producer Harvey Weinstein.

Burke remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.