Scott Peterson heading to trial again in wrongful death suit Eds: APNewsNow; RECASTS second reference to judge.

MODESTO, Calif. (AP) Convicted killer Scott Peterson will be heading to trial again over the death of his pregnant wife, this time in civil court.

The parents of Laci Peterson have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against him, seeking a multimillion-dollar judgment.

A Stanislaus County Superior Court judge ruled Friday that Peterson would have to stand trial in the civil case. A jury found him guilty in 2003 of killing Laci Peterson and her fetus and dumping the body in San Francisco Bay on Christmas Eve 2002.

At Friday's hearing, Peterson's defense attorney cited in court a videotape made at San Quentin State Prison in which he maintains his innocence.

The judge stayed his ruling until June 23 to allow lawyers to appeal.

The trial is set to begin July 8.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 06-06-08 1501CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list