Strike-out application successful for juvenile defendant’s case in Kildare court

A strike-out application made by a barrister in Naas District Court was granted on Thursday, June 27 last.

Barrister Donncha Craddock made the application during a case before Judge Desmond Zaidan, in which he represented a juvenile client during an in-camera (in private) court session.

The exact nature of the charge(s) his client was facing were not detailed before the court on the date in question, although it was understood that it involved a road traffic matter.

However, it was heard that the offence was technically in the remit of another jurisdiction outside of County Kildare.

The juvenile was accompanied in court by one of their parents.

It was heard that a book of evidence was due to be served, but the court was informed by gardaí that this book was not ready.

Mr Craddock told the judge that he was unhappy with the length of time the case was taking.

He said: "This has been going on for some time."

Barrister Donncha Craddock was critical of delays in the case.

Mr Craddock also pointed out his client's age: "The law should be expeditious when dealing with this matter (because of the teenager's age)."

He also took issue with the State's apparent issue of jurisdiction in the case: "Ireland is a small country, this area (where the offence took place) is basically down the road!

"It's crazy, I'm shocked that the State is using geography and his age as an excuse here!"

Judge Zaidan noted that the case first appeared before the court around 10 months ago, and noted a number of past delays and subsequent adjournments.

He ultimately agreed with Mr Craddock's sentiments and agreed to strike-out the case without prejudice.

The judge did note, however, that the State could bring back the charges against the juvenile, and he asked Mr Craddock to explain this to his client.