Triple-murder suspect appears in court

WATERLOO, Ill. -- An attorney for a southwestern Illinois man accused of strangling his wife and their two sons says he will become certified by the state to handle his client's death penalty case.

William Margulis is representing Christopher Coleman, who is accused of killing his wife and sons, ages 11 and 9, in May in their Columbia home.

Monroe County prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for the 32-year-old Coleman.

During a brief status hearing Wednesday in Waterloo, Margulis said he will attend a certification class in October.

Coleman has pleaded not guilty to three first-degree murder counts. He remains jailed without bond.

Coleman's next hearing is scheduled for Nov. 13.