(AP) — Former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich (blah-GOY'-uh-vich) may be losing a lawyer.

Veteran defense attorney Allan Ackerman filed papers in federal court asking permission to withdraw, citing "philosophical differences" among the lawyers.

He didn't spell out what the differences were, but said that as a result, he is "no longer able to stridently participate in the defense of the accused."

Blagojevich attorney Sheldon Sorosky said the departure was "all very friendly."

Blagojevich has pleaded not guilty to charges that he was scheming to sell or trade President Barack Obama's former U.S. Senate seat.

Gregg Sarra sounds off on the Nassau Conference II football matchup between Calhoun at Carey, plus the comeback story of New Hyde Park's Gabriel Peter, an update on the high school fantasy football standings and the plays of the week. Credit: Randee Daddona, Gary Licker, Anthony Santino

Sarra Sounds Off, Season 3, Ep 4: Top football teams in action, fantasy update and plays of the week Gregg Sarra sounds off on the Nassau Conference II football matchup between Calhoun at Carey, plus the comeback story of New Hyde Park's Gabriel Peter, an update on the high school fantasy football standings and the plays of the week.

Gregg Sarra sounds off on the Nassau Conference II football matchup between Calhoun at Carey, plus the comeback story of New Hyde Park's Gabriel Peter, an update on the high school fantasy football standings and the plays of the week. Credit: Randee Daddona, Gary Licker, Anthony Santino

Sarra Sounds Off, Season 3, Ep 4: Top football teams in action, fantasy update and plays of the week Gregg Sarra sounds off on the Nassau Conference II football matchup between Calhoun at Carey, plus the comeback story of New Hyde Park's Gabriel Peter, an update on the high school fantasy football standings and the plays of the week.

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