THE High Court in Lautoka yesterday granted defence lawyer Alifereti Waqavakatoga additional time to prepare and file written closing submissions in the trial of Ilaisa Tanoa Degei.
Mr Degei is charged with rape and sexual assault.
The State alleges the offences were committed against a former Virgin Australia flight attendant in Nadi between December 31, 2024, and January 1, 2025.
The matter was heard before Justice Sunil Sharma for the formal presentation of closing submissions, but Mr Waqavakatoga informed the court that the defence was not prepared to file its final submissions.
He sought a short adjournment to either September 21 or September 22 to allow sufficient time to complete and lodge the necessary documents.
State lawyer Laisiasa Baleilevuka raised no objection to the defence application for an extension of time.
Justice Sharma adjourned the proceedings to September 22 for closing submissions and extended bail for Mr Degei.
