Francis did not immediately respond to a call seeking comment. The hearing was to address his request to hire a new attorney.
Francis is accused of claiming more than $20 million in bogus business expenses on his corporate tax returns, including $3.8 million for a home in Mexico and $10.4 million in phony consulting services.
He has pleaded not guilty. His trial is scheduled for March.
CLICK HERE to follow Action News on Twitter
CLICK HERE to get Action News on your website
CLICK HERE to find Action News on Facebook