Conflict of interest accusation delays Hernandez case

The man charged in connection with a fatal hit and run case just before Christmas had his bail hearing delayed again Wednesday. 

Christian Hernandez, 25, faces a new hurdle as the Crown is trying to get his lawyer removed from the case due to an alleged conflict of interest.
Hernandez is charged with impaired driving and failing to remain at the scene of an collision following the death of 45-year-old Richard Carmichael.  Carmichael was walking home on Dec. 19 when he was struck by a vehicle and killed. 

On Wednesday in provincial court, the Crown argued that defense lawyer Chris Watkins should be removed from the case because he once represented Carmichael in court about a decade ago. 

Watkins said he doesn't recall that, and added that any perceived conflict is superseded by Hernandez's right to be represented by the lawyer of his choice. The issue will be argued in court again on Thursday. 

Watkins said if he is allowed to remain as Hernandez's lawyer, he hopes to get his client freed on bail as soon as possible.