Murder suspect Markeith Loyd asks judge to let Miami lawyer represent him

ORLANDO, Fla. — Murder suspect Markeith Loyd asked an Orange County judge for a lawyer Monday morning during a court hearing.

Loyd, who is accused of fatally shooting his pregnant ex-girlfriend, Sade Dixon, and Orlando police Lt. Debra Clayton, previously said he wanted to represent himself at trial.

Loyd filed a handwritten motion asking that Terence Lenamon, a Miami-based defense lawyer, be his lead attorney instead of Roger Weeden, his appointed standby counsel. Loyd said that he met with Lenamon, who agreed to represent him. Lenamon is known for removing the death penalty from the table for many of his clients.

Judge Frederick Lauten said that though granting such a request is uncommon, he will consider the motion because he thinks it's important that Loyd be represented.

Weeden said he was surprised by Loyd's request, but he said he's not opposed to it because he's making progress.

"We are building trust with Markeith," Weeden said. "Obviously, the situation he is in, he is very leery about procedures, so it is good to have his trust."

Should Lauten grant the motion, it could prevent a speedy trial because a newly appointed attorney wouldn't be prepared for the trial, which is scheduled to begin May 1.

The discovery phase and the collection of a DNA sample were scheduled to happen Monday, but the motions were postponed until a decision is made on Loyd's legal representation.

Loyd was clear and calm in court Monday and had no outbursts, unlike previous court hearings. But when Weeden asked to speak with his client, Loyd said, "I'm busy."

State Attorney Brad King has selected several assistant state attorneys and investigators to prosecute the case.

Gov. Rick Scott removed State Attorney Aramis Ayala from the case last month after she announced that she wouldn't pursue the death penalty in Loyd's case or any others during her tenure.

A judge ordered last week that Loyd undergo a psychological evaluation to determine whether he is competent to stand trial. But Loyd said he wouldn't cooperate.

Loyd said he plans to file a motion against Scott and King for their involvement in the case.

Dixon's relatives said through a family spokesperson that they're considering filing a wrongful death lawsuit against Loyd. They said Scott called them on Friday to apologize for everything that has happened with the case and to offer support with anything they need.

Loyd blew a kiss and waved at his relatives as he left the courtroom. His next hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. on April 12.

WATCH: Markeith Loyd's court appearance below: 

Cox Media Group