George Zimmerman, Trayvon Martin case: Judge Debra S. Nelson holds first hearing today

Associated Press

SANFORD, Fla. - The new judge in the murder case of a former Florida neighborhood watch volunteer accused of shooting an unarmed teenager is meeting with attorneys to get an update on how close they are in proceeding to trial.

George Zimmerman, charged with second-degree murder, isn't expected to be in court Wednesday for the procedural hearing.

Judge Debra S. Nelson was appointed to the case in late August after an appeals' court found that the former judge made disparaging remarks about Zimmerman's character and advocated for additional charges against him during a bond hearing.

The 29-year-old is charged with shooting 17-year-old Trayvon Martin in February. Zimmerman has claimed self-defense and is pleading not guilty.

A hearing is also set for Friday for the judge to hear arguments on several new motions.