
'Niche item' ... rubber ringA JUDGE halted a trial yesterday because the defendant needed a cushion for his piles.
The defendant's lawyers said he was in "obvious distress and significant pain" and needed a rubber ring to sit on in the dock.
The judge delayed the ?10,000-a-day trial's opening so the legal team could find one.
But despite going to three pharmacies and a hospital they returned empty handed.
The defendant's barrister said the ?15 medical cushion they needed was "a specialised, niche item" and had to be ordered.
He added that his client had put on a brave face but needed the ring if he was to "participate effectively".
The judge adjourned the crown court hearing for a day.
The TaxPayers' Alliance said later: "Not being prepared with a cushion was a costly mistake.
Of course defendants' health considerations should be taken into account but planning ahead would save money."
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The law is an ass as trial halted by piles | The Sun |News


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