Nicosia, Cyprus. A hearing at the Nicosia criminal court in the ongoing trial of a German real estate agent included a brief attempt by defence counsel to withdraw, before the lawyer agreed to continue representation. The session later moved on to evidential matters, including mobile phone data extraction findings.
Defence raises volume and translation concerns
Defence lawyer Sotiris Argyrou told the court he intended to step aside, citing the scale and complexity of the evidence and procedural constraints. He said much of the material was in German and that meaningful preparation was “practically impossible.”
Argyrou said the issue was capacity rather than cooperation, stating, “There has never been a refusal to cooperate,” and adding that “decisions cannot be made without a complete picture of the data.” He pointed to the logistical burden of reviewing and translating extensive witness material, saying that even with multiple weekly meetings, preparation remained insufficient.
The defence has consistently argued that delays in translation have hindered its ability to fully engage with the case.
Prosecution rejects obstruction claims
The prosecution rejected any suggestion of obstruction, with prosecuting authority spokesperson Anna Mattheou telling the court that no instructions had been issued that could influence proceedings or witnesses. She said the material already provided was adequate for preparation.
Mattheou acknowledged that some documents remain untranslated but said a substantial volume had already been delivered and insisted there had been no violation of defence rights.
Representation continues and evidence presented
After a series of adjournments to allow consultation, Argyrou told the court that his client did not wish to terminate his representation, reversing his earlier position and allowing proceedings to continue without disruption.
The hearing then moved to evidential matters, with prosecution witness Konstantinos Anastasiou, a sergeant with the Cybercrime unit, presenting findings from a mobile phone data extraction.
What impact do translation delays have on a defendant’s ability to prepare for trial?
