A judge has stressed that the trial of former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson and his wife Eleanor Donaldson should not be delayed again.
The couple both face charges relating to alleged historical sex offences.
The trial had previously been due to start in March, but was delayed because of Ms Donaldson’s ill health.
A new trial date has been set for 3 November.
The case was mentioned briefly at Belfast Crown Court this morning for an update on an assessment over whether Ms Donaldson is currently fit to stand trial.
Ian Turkington KC, who represents Ms Donaldson, said his client was examined by a consultant psychiatrist on 18 July.
“We have been told we can expect a report, hopefully this Monday,” he said.
“That being so, I’ve indicated that if there is an intention to serve any report, it’ll be done within seven days of our receipt of the report, assuming it is Monday.”
Eleanor Donaldson is facing charges of aiding and abetting, which she denies (File image)
The prosecution also intend to instruct a doctor to examine Ms Donaldson.
Judge Paul Ramsey put to Mr Turkington that this depends what is in the report, and expressed that he is keen to ensure the trial date is not interfered with.
It was agreed the case would be mentioned on 11 September at Newry Crown Court for an update.
The judge said it would not be necessary for defendants to attend on that date.
Mr Donaldson, 62, who did not attend the hearing in Belfast this morning, has pleaded not guilty to 18 charges including one count of rape, four counts of gross indecency and 13 charges of indecent assault.
The charges relate to alleged offences against two plaintiffs between 1985 and 2008.
Ms Donaldson, 59, of Dublinhill Road, Dromore, who also did not attend court, is facing charges of aiding and abetting, which she denies.