JOLIET, Ill. (AP) - A judge will hear Drew Peterson's lawyers argue next month about why the former suburban Chicago police officer should get a new trial following his conviction for murdering his third wife.

At a Thursday hearing, Will County Judge Edward Burmila set aside two days, Feb. 19 and 20. If the judge denies the motion for a new trial, he'll proceed straight to sentencing.

Jurors convicted Peterson in the 2004 drowning death of Kathleen Savio. His fourth wife, Stacy Peterson, vanished in 2007.

The request for a new trial is based in part on allegations Peterson's former lead attorney, Joel Brodsky, failed to adequately defend him. Brodsky has adamantly denied that claim.

The acrimony within the legal team delayed Peterson's original sentencing date. He faces up to 60 years in prison.
Copyright © 2013 Associated Press