Trial Date Scheduled for Jeffrey Donaldson and Lady Donaldson

A judge has scheduled a new trial date for the sex offences case involving former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson and his wife, Lady Donaldson.

Both will face trial jointly at Newry Crown Court on 26 May.

Four weeks have been allocated for a jury to hear the evidence presented in the case.

Charges and Allegations

The couple deny a total of 23 charges, which allegedly occurred between 1985 and 2008.

Sir Jeffrey, aged 63, faces 18 offences, including one count of rape.

Lady Donaldson, 59, is charged with five counts related to aiding and abetting.

Court Proceedings and Health Concerns

The case was listed for mention during a hearing on Monday.

Lady Donaldson's barrister, Ian Turkington KC, informed Judge Paul Ramsey that his client is

"seriously unwell"

.

Despite this, he stated there was no reason to delay setting a trial date, expressing hope that she will be

"well enough"

by then.

The judge also ruled that the two alleged victims will be permitted to give evidence via video link.

Previous Postponements and Arrest Details

The trial has been postponed twice previously due to Lady Donaldson's health issues.

The couple last appeared in court 11 months ago and have not been required to attend since that time.

They were arrested and charged in March 2024.