A judge of the High Court in Lautoka has reminded lawyers to leave early for court and arrive before their cases start.

Justice Thushara Ranasinghe made the remarks yesterday after a man pleaded guilty to seven counts of rape and two counts of indecent assault in the absence of his lawyer.

When asked if he understood the consequences of pleading guilty, the accused replied ‘maybe, yes’.

Justice Ranasinghe asked that the accused’s lawyer should be contacted to attend to the case and speak to the accused.

Justice Ranasinghe said he would inform the Director of the Public Prosecution about the late arrivals of the lawyers for their cases.

The counsel later sought withdrawal of the plea because the accused had not understood the charges. Justice Ranasinghe granted seven days to the counsel before the accused appears again for the plea.

He told the lawyer to talk and discuss the matter with the accused, represent the interest of his client and be in court on time.

Justice Ranasinghe stood down at least three cases because lawyers were not available.

Edited by Nemani Delaibatiki

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