Elon Musk’s Attorney Alex Spiro Cleared to Testify in Twitter Stock Trial

A U.S. judge ruled that Alex Spiro can remain as Elon Musk’s lawyer. The decision came in a shareholder lawsuit over Musk’s 2022 Twitter acquisition. The trial is scheduled for January 2026 in San Francisco.

Plaintiffs had objected to Spiro’s dual role. They argued a lawyer who may also be a witness creates a conflict. Musk’s legal team successfully countered the objection as a last-minute delay tactic.

Judge Rejects Last-Minute Disqualification Attempt

U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer made the ruling on Monday. According to Reuters, he rejected the shareholders’ push to disqualify Spiro. The judge found their objection came too late in the proceedings.

Musk’s lawyers labeled the move a “Hail Mary.” They emphasized the plaintiffs waited an unreasonable time to object. The legal strategy allows Spiro to both defend Musk and potentially take the stand.

This situation highlights a quirky courtroom dynamic. A lawyer’s testimony is often viewed with natural skepticism. Yet the ruling shows how procedural timing can shape a trial’s landscape.

Legal Wrangles Continue Over Twitter Deal Fallout

The lawsuit centers on serious stock manipulation claims. Shareholders allege Musk manipulated Twitter’s stock price. This occurred before he was compelled to complete his $44 billion purchase.

The case is another chapter in Musk’s unusual legal history. His court battles frequently involve procedural twists. This includes forum shopping and questions over judicial investments.

For shareholders, the ruling is a minor setback. Their core fraud allegations remain intact for trial. The coming months will see both sides preparing for a high-stakes courtroom clash.

The January 2026 trial will now proceed with Alex Spiro firmly in place as lead counsel, setting the stage for a closely watched Twitter stock trial that continues to test the boundaries of corporate litigation.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the shareholder lawsuit against Elon Musk about?

Shareholders sued Musk over his 2022 purchase of Twitter. They accuse him of manipulating the company’s stock price before he was forced to finalize the $44 billion deal. The case is set for trial in early 2026.

Why did plaintiffs want Alex Spiro disqualified?

They argued a lawyer who might also be a witness creates a conflict of interest. This could potentially prejudice the trial. The judge disagreed, citing the late timing of their objection.

When will the Twitter stock trial begin?

The trial is currently scheduled for January 2026. It will be held in a San Francisco federal court. Judge Charles Breyer is presiding over the case.

How did Musk’s legal team respond to the challenge?

His lawyers called the disqualification effort a “Hail Mary.” They successfully argued the plaintiffs waited too long to raise the issue. The judge’s ruling allows Spiro to continue as counsel.

What is the potential impact of this ruling?

It allows Musk’s longtime lawyer to steer the defense and testify. Legal experts note it introduces an unusual dynamic. The lawyer’s advocacy role may color how his testimony is perceived by the jury.