BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) -- A lawyer who says he no longer wants to represent a New York man claiming part ownership of Facebook (META -4.13%) is still on the case for now after his client told a judge he doesn't want him to go.

Paul Ceglia's opposition to Ohio attorney Dean Boland's request to withdraw from Ceglia's civil lawsuit surprised Facebook attorneys, who'd been ready to go along with it during a court hearing conducted by phone Tuesday.

It also surprised Magistrate Judge Leslie Foschio, who put the request on hold.

Boland hasn't said publicly why he wants off the case, outlining his reasons privately to the judge.

Now Facebook wants the reasons disclosed. The judge gave Boland until Dec. 4 to respond to that request.

Without giving details, Ceglia implied Boland's been receiving threats.