LAS VEGAS – One of O.J. Simpson's lawyers says the former football star is "upbeat" and hopeful the Nevada Supreme Court will overturn his conviction and grant a new trial in a September 2007 hotel room heist.

Simpson lawyer Malcolm LaVergne (la-VERN') says he visited Simpson last week at a state prison in the northern Nevada town of Lovelock.

He says Simpson knows the arguments being made Friday before three state high court justices in Las Vegas, and understands how important they are.

The attorney representing convicted co-defendant Clarence "C.J." Stewart says Stewart is "strong and very optimistic.

Simpson is serving nine to 33 years, while Stewart is serving 7 1/2 to 27 years.

A ruling from the court is expected later this year.

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Watch the proceedings: http://www.nevadajudiciary.us.

Cable network In Session, on TruTV, will also broadcast the 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. arguments.