Hong Kong Ordinances

MAGISTRATES ORDINANCE - SECT 18A

Non-appearance of defendant

Subject to sections 18E and 19A(5), in any case where a summons has been
served on the defendant a reasonable time before the hearing and at the time
and place appointed for the hearing only the complainant or informant appears,
the magistrate-

   (a)  may issue a warrant to arrest the defendant and bring him before a
        magistrate and adjourn the hearing for such time as he may think fit;
        (See Form 2)

   (b)  may adjourn the hearing under section 20 and if the defendant does not
        appear at the time and place to which the hearing is adjourned may
        issue a warrant to arrest the defendant and bring him before a
        magistrate; or

   (c)  may, upon the application of the complainant or informant, dismiss the
        complaint or information. (Added 18 of 1984 s. 4) (Added 36 of 1976 s.
        5. Amended 18 of 1984 s. 4)