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Craig Wright, who is not Satoshi, attended a court hearing today concerning a contempt application filed by the Cryptocurrency Open Patent Alliance (COPA). The judge scheduled the contempt hearing for Dec. 18, with discussions on whether Wright must appear in person and potential cross-examination.
BitMex Research provided a live transcript of the court proceedings, during which the judge addressed Wright’s objection to a stay in the claim against Square Up and other defendants. Wright initially resisted but conceded after the judge clarified that a short stay would not affect the trial date. The judge ruled to stay the claim against Square Up, noting that any new claims against additional entities would require proper formatting and service.
Wright expressed reluctance to attend the December hearing in person, citing his autism spectrum disorder and the challenges it presents in a courtroom setting. He requested to participate remotely from Singapore, where he plans to be with his family during the holidays. The judge acknowledged his condition but emphasized the seriousness of the contempt proceedings and the importance of his physical presence in court.
Per BitMEX Research, Wright stated, “I am very high on the autism scale. I do not work well with people… In my own environment, I am much better.” The judge responded by noting that Wright might underestimate the gravity of the contempt application and suggested that further evidence regarding his condition could be submitted. Wright agreed to promptly provide the name of his specialist and any additional documentation.
COPA’s legal representative, Hough KC, argued for Wright’s in-person attendance, highlighting the significance of the proceedings and Wright’s status as a UK resident. He stated,
“If there is any merit in COPA’s application, its wrong in principal to hide behind a keyboard from a closet in Thailand. CSW says he is a UK resident and should be expected to return to the UK for the hearing.”
The judge deferred the decision on this matter until reviewing Wright’s forthcoming evidence. A further directions hearing was scheduled for Nov. 26 to address outstanding issues.
This is not the first time contempt charges have been brought against Wright. In 2022, it related to an alleged embargo breach after a libel ruling involving Peter McCormack. While prior contempt proceedings were not pursued due to public interest and resource allocation considerations, the current application presents new legal challenges.
Discussions also covered logistical aspects of the upcoming hearing, including page limits for legal documents and jurisdictional concerns with remote participation from Singapore. The judge emphasized the need to adhere to court protocols and the seriousness of the contempt allegations.