The trial for accused murderer David Folker has been rescheduled for next fall.
The eight-week trial was originally set to begin in February, but had to be rescheduled when Folker's lawyer, Bob Simmonds, opted to step down as his counsel due to scheduling and financial reasons.
Folker wasn't in Newfoundland Supreme Court when the case was called today during arraignments. He was represented by his new lawyer Jason Edwards. He is co-counsel with Scott Hurley.
Edwards told Justice Wayne Dymond that it wasn't a matter of not being ready sooner. They just didn't want any interruptions in dates once the trial begins. The court's schedule for the fall was open.
Edwards and Crown prosecutors Iain Hollett and Vikas Khaladkar agreed to have the trial start Oct. 7. Jury selection will be Oct. 2.
Pre-trial applications will be argued March 19.
Lawyers will meet for a pre-trial conference in January.
Folker, 41, is accused of murdering his girlfriend Ann Marie Shirran in 2010.
The 32-year-old woman disappeared July 18, 2010, and was reportedly last seen at the Kilbride home she shared with Folker and their young son.
He reported her missing. An extensive search was conducted, but it wasn't until Sept. 2, 2010 that Shirran's body was found by campers in the woods south of Cappahayden on the southern shore.
Folker was one of four accused murderers who had their cases called in arraignments today.
Trevor Pardy had his case set over until Dec. 19 to allow him more time to get a new lawyer. He fired Jeff Brace, his first lawyer.
Philip Pynn and Lyndon Butler were also in court. Pynn, with his lawyer Mark Gruchy, while Jeff Brace is Butler's lawyer.
Brace told the judge there are several issues left to deal with before they can set a date for a trial.
Their cases will be back in court Feb. 1.
Pardy and Pynn are in custody, while Butler is out on bail.
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