That is because federal prosecutors will be trying the defendants individually, and having the same lawyer as another defendant in a criminal case presents a clear conflict of interest.

The recommendations of the court and prosecutors could not sway the Colburns however, who on Friday told Judge M. Page Kelley they planned to proceed with their attorney from the offices of Hooper Lundy & Bookman.

‘In your specific case, even if that motion is successful, you will almost certainly be tried together as being in the same conspiracy,’ explained Judge Kelley at one point.

‘No matter what happens with that motion, you’re still in the same boat you are today.’