Alex Murdaugh’s defence is due to return to a South Carolina courtroom to seek dismissal of the murder case and to limit evidence that could be presented at any retrial. The hearing matters because it could shape whether, and on what basis, Murdaugh faces a second trial over the killings of his wife and son.

The dispute is expected to focus on the murder indictments, testimony, alleged financial crimes and DNA evidence. Fox News cited Nathan S. Williams, a former federal prosecutor and South Carolina criminal defence lawyer, saying a second trial would alter the legal landscape for Murdaugh.