Lumberton, N.C. — The retrial of a Cary contractor accused of killing his wife four years ago will be delayed because a defense attorney was removed from the case Monday.

Myron Britt is charged with first-degree murder in connection with the August 2003 shooting death of his wife, Nancy Britt, a Wake County teacher.

Authorities said Myron Britt was in financial trouble and wanted to collect on his wife's $800,000 life insurance policy. Defense attorneys have maintained that the couple was happy and that Myron Britt had no motive to kill his wife.

A June 2006 trial ended in a mistrial when the jury deadlocked 11-1 in favor of conviction.

After the trial, two attorneys were appointed to handle the case because Myron Britt claimed he could no longer afford to pay for a lawyer.

Woodberry Bowen, one of the attorneys named to the case, had asked to be removed, citing irreconcilable differences with Britt. A judge granted that request Monday.

Prosecutors said a new attorney will have to get up to speed in the case, which will delay the retrial.

Britt remains in jail awaiting trial. If convicted, he could face the death penalty.