We told you it was in the works ... but now, it's official -- Aaron Hernandez has hired Casey Anthony's lawyer Jose Baez to represent him in his double murder case.
The ex-NFL star and convicted murderer met with Baez at his Massachusetts prison earlier this week -- and moments ago, Baez announced Hernandez has made the move to retain Baez's firm.
"I can now confirm that my firm has been retained to represent Mr. Aaron Hernandez in his upcoming trial," Baez said in a statement.
"Mr. Hernandez strongly maintains his innocence, and I plan to establish that before a jury of his peers.