being declared bankrupt.

Puisne Judge Charles-Etta Simmons agreed to a further adjournment until December 9 for Mr. Hall after a brief hearing last week before the Supreme Court.

Mr. Hall was not in court. But the court heard that lawyer Kevin Bean would be taking over as attorney. Mr. Bean said Mr. Hall was overseas attending a family matter.

Alan Dunch, appearing for the joint receivers, said he had been instructed to put the notice of motion for a formal order of bankruptcy over for a maximum period of 30 days.

He said the time would allow Mr. Hall time to put forward any proposals he may have in connection with repayment of the judgment debt.

"The joint receivers wish to keep Julian Hall on a relatively tight leash,'' said Mr. Dunch.

Mr. Hall has been ordered to pay $1.6 million plus interest to Betty Lorraine McMahon, a former client and widow of a Canadian millionaire.

Mr. Bean said his client apologised to the court for his absence. He added that he was seeking to file a notice of change of attorney.