Anne Pressly’s accused slayer, Curtis Lavelle Vance, is in court this morning. Fox 16’s David Goins Twitters it. Goins’ blow-by-blow is here.

Trial will go forward as scheduled Sept. 9. Deadline for a plea deal, if one is to be struck, is May 12.

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Defense lawyers argued that they should receive notice and be present if Vance initiates discussions with cops, as he’s done twice. Prosecution said Vance can waive his right to have attorneys present during such talks.

Judge Chris Piazza denied defense motion to impose any rules on who may talk to Vance. Notice to lawyers also not required should Vance seek again to talk to cops without them. Defense also gets no protection from prosecutor questioning of their expert witnesses.

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When defense asked that Vance no longer wear bullet-proof vest and simply appear in prison orange jumpsuit, Judge Piazza asked Vance how he felt about it. “That’s cool,” was the response, Goins reports.

Defense also wanted judge to gag reporters, to prevent them from asking Vance questions outside court. Surely the judge denied that prior restraint. Whatever. Vance left without saying much today.

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