62—Proceedings on non-appearance of defendant
(1) If the defendant
fails to appear in obedience to the summons the Magistrates Court may—
(a)
issue a warrant as provided by section 58, and adjourn the hearing until
the defendant is apprehended; or
(b) upon
proof that the summons was served a reasonable time before the time thereby
appointed for his appearance, proceed in the absence of the defendant to the
hearing of the information and subject to section 62C to adjudicate
thereon as fully and effectually, to all intents and purposes, as if the
defendant had personally appeared before it in obedience to the summons; or
(ba)
upon proof that the summons was served a reasonable time before the time
thereby appointed for the defendant's appearance, order that the information
may be heard in the absence of the defendant and adjourn the hearing; or
(c) if
the defendant has pleaded guilty in writing pursuant to section 57A
proceed in the manner provided by sections 62B and 62C.
(2) At a hearing
adjourned pursuant to paragraph (ba) of subsection (1) of this
section, the Magistrates Court may proceed in the absence of the defendant to
the hearing of the information and subject to section 62C of this Act
adjudicate thereon as fully and effectually, to all intents and purposes, as
if the defendant had personally appeared before it in obedience to the
summons.
(3) Where a hearing is
adjourned under subsection (1), the Magistrates Court need not be
constituted at the adjourned hearing of the same judicial officer as ordered
the adjournment.