Defense attorneys file appeal in Ted Binion murder case

LAS VEGAS - Attorneys for Rick Tabish and Sandy Murphy have filed a joint notice of appeal in the Ted Binion murder case.

Thursday's filing is the first step in the process that will culminate in the Nevada Supreme Court deciding whether the lovers are entitled to a new trial.

Murphy's attorneys John Momot and Tom Pitaro said Harvard law professor Alan Dershowitz has agreed to join the Murphy legal team. Dershowitz, who has written several books on defense tactics, has a reputation for taking tough cases on appeal. Among his clients are O.J. Simpson, Mike Tyson, Leona Helmsley and Claus von Bulow.

Murphy and Tabish were convicted in May of murder and other charges arising from the September 1998 death of the former casino executive.

Tabish will be eligible for parole in 25 years, and Murphy must serve at least 22 years.

Key issues expected to be raised on appeal include allegations of juror misconduct and District Judge Joseph Bonaventure's decision that the two defendants were not entitled to separate trials.

The defense also will argue that jurors should not have been permitted to rely upon different legal theories in finding the couple guilty of murder.

Momot said it likely will be at least 18 months before the Supreme Court issues its decision.

Attorney Bill Terry continues to represent Tabish. Pitaro said attorneys for Murphy and Tabish will cooperate on joint appellate issues.

The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported Friday that William Fuller, the 70-something millionaire who financed Murphy's attorneys in the murder trial, is also picking up the tab for the former exotic dancer's appeal.