Mason Lee inquest may face delays over coronavirus outbreak

The long-awaited inquest into the death of Caboolture toddler Mason Lee May face delays due to the COVID-19 outbreak after three lawyers did not attend court.

THE long-awaited inquest into the death of Caboolture toddler Mason Lee may face delays due to the COVID-19 outbreak after three lawyers did not attend court.

The inquest, which began yesterday, had been due to run for two weeks but lawyers this morning said they expected a witness called this morning would be the last.

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Coroner Jane Bentley requested all lawyers involved in the case come to court this morning at 10am to discuss a way forward with the inquest amid the outbreak however a number of parties did not attend.

It’s understood instead of completely adjourning the case to another date, the inquest could proceed “on the papers” with further cross examination of witness done at a later date if required.

Ann-Marie Lee.

Andrew William O'Sullivan.

It comes as the Brisbane Magistrates Court attempts to implement social distancing amid the outbreak.

A sign on the door to the coroner’s court that people should ensure there are no more than five parties in the court room at any time.

However there are more than 30 people in the room where this inquest is being held including lawyers, media and witnesses.

Originally published as Mason Lee inquest may face delays over coronavirus outbreak