Dispute over who will represent former Venezuelan leader Maduro in U.S. court

A disagreement has arisen in Manhattan federal court over whether Bruce Fein may join Nicolás Maduro's legal team, and a judge has been asked to clarify who represents Maduro.

A dispute has emerged in a U.S. federal case about who may represent former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. Maduro and his wife pleaded not guilty in Manhattan to U.S. drug trafficking charges. Defense attorney Barry Pollack says he is Maduro's sole lawyer and that Maduro does not know Bruce Fein. Fein says people close to Maduro sought his help and asked a judge to let Maduro settle who will represent him. Key points: - Maduro was arraigned in Manhattan federal court and pleaded not guilty to criminal charges. - Barry Pollack says he is the only attorney authorized by Maduro and that Maduro does not know Bruce Fein. - Bruce Fein has sought to join the case and suggested the judge privately ask Maduro about his representation wishes. Summary: The disagreement centers on who is properly authorized to represent Maduro in the federal case, and the court has been asked to resolve the question. The judge has been asked to clarify representation, including the possibility of privately confirming Maduro's choice.