Overview

• Lady Eleanor Donaldson is scheduled to appear in Newry Crown Court on December 17 to request the withdrawal of two charges against her.
• Her husband, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, former DUP leader, is accused of 18 historical sex offences, including rape and indecent assault.
• Sir Jeffrey has pleaded not guilty to all charges, which involve two alleged victims and span from 1985 to 2008.
• The trial for both Sir Jeffrey and Lady Eleanor Donaldson is set to commence in March 2025.
• Lady Donaldson's legal team has filed a 'no bill' application, and the court will hear arguments for this on December 17.