Bruce Lehrmann changes lawyers before Queensland rape trial

Bruce Lehrmann has changed his legal representation ahead of his upcoming trial in Queensland, where he faces two counts of rape. Sydney-based lawyer Zali Burrows will now represent Lehrmann, replacing Rowan King, who has previously handled his case. Lehrmann is accused of raping a woman on October 10, 2021, after they met at a strip club the night before. His legal team plans to apply for a judge-alone trial, citing potential impacts of pre-trial publicity. Burrows is also involved in Lehrmann's ongoing appeal in a defamation case against Network Ten regarding allegations made by Brittany Higgins. Lehrmann has not yet entered pleas to the charges and is expected to defend himself in court.