Judge Hittner denied that request, so Fazel is saddling up for trial beginning next week.

FORBES: Allen Stanford Promises to Take Stand in His Criminal Trial

This week, Judge Hittner ordered Mr. Essmyer, who had been "terminated" by Mr. Stanford, to stay in the case.

WSJ: Stanford's Defense Turns Into Legal Circus

Judge Hittner initially found him incompetent to stand trial because of his addiction to prescribed painkillers, but in December 2011 found him competent after a forensic and psychiatric report said that Mr. Stanford had exaggerated his impairment.

WSJ: Stanford Sentenced to 110 Years in Prison for Ponzi Scheme