Speaking after a scheduled arraignment hearing for Howard K. Stern was adjourned, lawyer Steve Sadow insisted his client, also an attorney, would fight the 'baseless' allegations he faces.

Prosecutors say Stern and two doctors - Sandeep Kapoor and psychiatrist Khristine Eroshevich - conspired to 'repeatedly and excessively' provide Ms Smith with prescription drugs prior to her death. Ms Smith, 39, was found dead in February 2007 in Florida. Her death was ruled an accidental drug overdose.

However Mr Sadow said on Tuesday that there was no evidence against Stern.

'I have come to California to represent Howard K. Stern for one fundamental and simple reason - he is innocent. Let me repeat that,' Mr Sadow said.

'He is innocent of the baseless allegations made against him in the criminal complaint. Howard loved Anna Nicole with all of his heart and would have never done anything intentional to harm her.' Tuesday's arraignment hearing was re-scheduled to May 13. -- AFP