LONDON (Reuters) – WikiLeaks' founder Julian Assange was due to appear in a London court Tuesday as lawyers draw the battle lines in his fight to avoid extradition to Sweden for questioning about alleged sex crimes.

The 39-year-old Australian computer expert, who has infuriated Washington by releasing details of secret U.S. diplomatic cables on his website, has protested his innocence over claims of sexual misconduct against two women.
“The hearing Tuesday was to ensure that the real issues in the case are identified and that preparation of the case is progressing in a timely fashion,” said a spokesman for Britain's courts service.
It will also decide elements of the legal process, such as which documents the prosecutors and defense lawyers should provide and whether any witnesses should be called up.
British police arrested Assange last month on a European warrant issued by Sweden following allegations made by two WikiLeaks' volunteers.