The Tel Aviv District Court last week heard issues surrounding the Holyland real estate trial. The state is seeking a three-justice panel instead of a single judge, adding more judicial weight to the final verdict. The court president, Justice Devorah Berlind rejected the state’s request and decided the matter will be heard by a single judge.

The defendants are being represented by many attorneys, among the most prominent in Israel legal community. Interestingly, Chadrei Chareidim reports that one of the defendants, former Jerusalem Mayor Rav Uri Lupoliansky was not present and he did not send legal representation. He is being represented by attorney Yuval Givon.

The court asked why defendant number six and/or his attorney were not present, referring to the former mayor. The state explained it is not in touch with the defendant and has no idea why he absented himself from the legal proceeding.

According to Chadrei Chareidim, Lupoliansky appears to have made a decision, and after a criminal indictment in the case was handed down against him, he no longer is concerning himself with the case and he has dismissed attorney Givon. Apparently he has no plans to attend the court sessions.

When asked to comment on the report the former mayor declined.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)