The accused applied for a Rowbotham order seeking Crown funding for legal representation, arguing that he was indigent, ineligible for legal aid, and that his right to a fair trial would be materially compromised if unrepresented.
The charge involved an indecent assault on a minor alleged to have occurred between 1979 and 1982.
The court dismissed the application, finding that while the charge was serious, the central issues at trial would revolve around credibility assessments, which are within the capability of a self-represented accused of average education and intelligence.
The court noted that appointed counsel would be available to cross-examine the complainant and bring necessary pre-trial applications, and that the trial judge would provide reasonable assistance throughout the proceedings.
