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There wasn't a parking place to be had Tuesday in Pahrump's courthouse parking lot.

Vehicles were parked across Basin Street as well as in the dirt and gravel in the undeveloped areas around the government complex.

Both justice courts were hearing cases and a civil trial was being held in the newest temporary courtroom. Prospective jurors were also waiting in the lobby.

In Judge Robert Lane's 5th District courtroom, attendees and their families awaiting hearings were crammed shoulder to shoulder in each row while at least a dozen people stood in the aisles toward the back of the room.

The 10 a.m. cases were still being heard after lunch at 1 p.m.

Lakeside shooter

Joseph Patrick Lamoureux, the man who allegedly shot Dep. Eric Murphy during a gunfight at Terrible's Lakeside RV park Sept. 19, 2008, appeared before Lane for his arraignment after several appearances in Justice Court.

During his incarceration, he was sent to Lakes Crossing for evaluation. Lamoureux told Lane he has been treated for a mental disorder and entered a plea of not guilty of attempted murder by reason of insanity.

Amended information was not readily available to the court and the arraignment will be continued in September.

Petell, Joerger not dating

Jim Petell appeared before Judge Robert Lane on Petell's charges of violating gaming law. His attorney Carl Joerger was at his side. Joerger told the court it has been difficult getting an expert witness on gaming law and informed Lane that his client said he was not ready to go to trial.

Lane mildly admonished Joerger and Petell for not being ready and Joerger replied, "I would have no problem with you allowing me to withdraw from this case, your honor."

"You mean you were appointed by the court," asked Lane.

When Joerger said yes, Petell told Lane he'd had no contact with Joeger.

"That's a complete fabrication," replied Joerger.

"Listen to me," said Lane. "I am not asking you guys to go out on a date together."

Addressing Petell, Lane said Joerger "happens to be a very competent lawyer. You guys have to start getting along together. We are going to trial. Get it done."

Petell remains at liberty. His appearance took about five or six minutes. A new hearing date will be set.