LOS ANGELES – A judge refused Friday to delay Lindsay Lohan’s trial on reckless driving and other charges and admonished her attorney, saying the lawyer needs help on the case.

Superior Court Judge James R. Dabney advised New York lawyer Mark Heller that his pleadings weren’t appropriate under California law.

Heller was told to get assistance from another attorney or Lohan would be required to attend hearings to gauge his ability to represent her.

The actress wasn’t obligated to attend Friday’s hearing. Heller said after the hearing that while his motions didn’t conform to California law, he was simply trying to protect Lohan’s rights and would continue to do so.

Dabney also said there was no good reason to delay the March 18 trial, noting that he was skeptical that more time would allow Lohan to demonstrate she had changed after years of run-ins with the law.

Heller had sought a delay as he works with prosecutors to reach a plea deal that could allow Lohan to pursue inspirational speaking or other community service.

– Associated Press