By Breaking Belize News Staff: The unlawful sexual intercourse (USI) trial against Jervis Matthews, now 31, is in limbo after a series of setbacks to his legal representation, the High Court heard this week.
Matthews’ case came up before Justice Nigel Pilgrim, who adjourned the matter following the suspension of Matthews’ former attorney, Hubert Elrington, from the Bar for six months, rendering him unable to continue representing the accused.
The court had recently appointed Ian Gray to take over the defense. However, Gray informed the court that he was compelled to recuse himself after discovering a conflict of interest—he represents the mother of the virtual complainant in the case. Gray explained that the conflict only became apparent after he confirmed the defendant’s full name, prompting his withdrawal. Justice Pilgrim allowed the recusal.
The case is at an advanced stage: the Crown has already called and closed its case, and the defense was poised to make final submissions when Elrington’s suspension intervened. As a result, scheduled oral and written submissions were never filed.
Justice Pilgrim extended Matthews’ bail and adjourned the matter to 9:00 a.m. tomorrow, when the court is expected to appoint another attorney and determine the way forward.
Matthews, a Belize City resident and entrepreneur, is charged with unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor. The allegations stem from November 2022, when he is accused of having sexual relations with a 15-year-old girl, then four months shy of her 16th birthday.
The post Jervis Matthews’ trial for sex with minor stalls after attorneys conflict of interest appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Breaking Belize News Staff: The unlawful sexual intercourse (USI) trial against Jervis Matthews, now 31, is in limbo after a series of setbacks to his legal representation, the High Court heard this week. Matthews’ case came up before Justice Nigel Pilgrim, who adjourned the matter following the suspension of Matthews’ former attorney, Hubert Elrington,
The post Jervis Matthews’ trial for sex with minor stalls after attorneys conflict of interest appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
