Harvey Weinstein parts ways with defence lawyer less than five months before sexual assault trial set to begin

Benjamin Brafman 'has agreed to co-operate fully with new counsel for Mr Weinstein so as to ensure an orderly transition'

Disgraced Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein and his criminal defence lawyer Benjamin Brafman have parted ways.

A representative for the pair said they had separated “amicably” and the lawyer would “co-operate fully” with Weinstein’s new counsel.

Weinstein is charged with raping an unidentified female acquaintance in 2013 and performing a forcible sex act on a different woman in 2006.

His sexual assault trial in New York is scheduled for 6 May. He denies all allegations of non-consensual sex.

Mr Brafman must remain on the case until judge James Burke signs off on the separation.

The joint statement read that Mr Brafman wished Weinstein “the best of luck” in court.

It said: “Both parties have agreed to part ways amicably and Mr Brafman has agreed to co-operate fully with new counsel for Mr Weinstein so as to ensure an orderly transition.

“Mr Weinstein praised Mr Brafman for his legal work to date and Mr Brafman reiterated his belief that Mr Weinstein would be exonerated of the charges that have been filed against him and Brafman personally wished Mr Weinstein the best of luck as he defends the case and the accusations that Mr Weinstein has vehemently denied.”

Weinstein said the names of his new defence team would be announced by the end of the week.

As well as the case in New York, the Hollywood producer is being investigated by police in London and Los Angeles.

His accusers include Mexican-American actress Salma Hayek, who alleges he sexually harassed her, and British model Cara Delevingne, who said he tried to kiss her.

Press Association