A reminder: Dr. Shieh's detention began May 25, 2006, and he was released 59 days later on July 22. Charges were filed by the investigator on December 25, 2006.
Christmas Day, 2007 marked 1 year and 7 months since detainment and exactly one year since charges were filed against Dr. Shieh, accusing him of "Favoritism."
Dr. Shieh is still restricted from traveling outside of Taiwan.
Preparatory court proceedings have been ongoing since March, 2006; the formal trial has NOT begun.
On Wednesday, December 26, the whole family attended one of Dr. Shieh's preparatory court hearings in Tainan. One judge, seated at an elevated bench, presided over the court, while to either side, the prosecutor and defending attorneys sit at tables. Only Dr. Shieh and the HongHua Contractor were required to attend this meeting, so they sat in chairs directly facing the judge, and between the lawyers. As room is limited, HongHua's three lawyers sat at the designated table, whereas Dr. Shieh's lawyers sat behind the bar, with the family and audience. The proceedings lasted about 2 hours total. The defendants spoke only at the beginning to identify themselves and to give their addresses. The defendants spent the rest of the time sitting quietly while the judge and lawyers discussed the case.
During that court meeting, a following court date was set for Friday, January 11, where all 10 defendants and their respective lawyers will be required to attend. Update on Jan 11 court date coming soon...
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