A Vernon sexual assault trial has been delayed until the New Year.

A trial began on Aug. 6 for former Vernon chiropractor Murray Kievit, who is accused of two counts of sexual assault alleged to have taken place in December 2021 against a former patient during two separate treatment sessions.

However, during the cross examination of an expert witness, Kievit's lawyer requested a mid-trial adjournment, which Justice David Ruse granted.

Kievit and his counsel returned to court Wednesday, Aug. 28, to fix dates for the continuation of the trial. 

According to the BC Prosecution Service, the trial will resume at the Vernon Law Courts Jan. 23 and 24, 2025, when the court will hear the remaining evidence. Closing submissions will take place months later, on April 11. 

Ann Seymour, acting communications counsel with the BC Prosecution Service, said it's not unusual to have gaps between continuation dates. She said factors that affect the setting of continuation dates include the availability of the judge, Crown counsel and defence counsel, and "any reasonable preparation time required."