Williams accused to claim self defence

Gangland killer Carl Williams died after being bashed at Barwon Prison.

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A MAN charged with murdering underworld killer Carl Williams will argue self defence, his lawyer has said.

The man, 36, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, appeared in the Geelong Magistrates' Court on Friday via videolink from prison.

His lawyer Christopher Traill told the court his client would argue self defence.

"It is apparent from the brief, your honour, that the defence open to the defence is that of defensive homicide," he said.

"It is clearly in my submission something that arises from the evidence on the brief."

The court heard friends of Carl Williams', prison officers and other prisoners will be called as witnesses.

Magistrate Ron Saines set the matter down for a 10 day committal hearing on November 29.

He also ordered the man to appear in court on October 22 for a further mention.

Williams, 39, suffered serious head injuries after he was bashed in Barwon Prison's maximum security Acacia Unit in April.

He suffered a heart attack and could not be revived.