Experts divided on SA couple's theft case

The future of a fraud case against an Adelaide couple charged with stealing $400,000 from workplaces, including churches, is in doubt.

Kerry Keen and her husband Frederick Keen are each charged with dishonestly dealing with property without consent.

But the Adelaide Magistrates Court was told on Wednesday that two forensic accountants have come up with different explanations for how the money went missing.

The defence counsel, after receiving the forensic report, is now seeking a no-case-to-answer hearing.

Magistrate Bob Harrap said he had looked at the "complex" case closely and he saw it going one of two very different ways.

"This can be an absolutely all or nothing situation," he told the court on Wednesday.

"A long, complex trial might be necessary."

But he said a trial may also be avoided, and if so there would be "significant credit" given to the defendants.

"There is a certain flavour to the allegations," he said.

"There may be an explanation, not an excuse, for what occurred.

"The matter is complex and there are ongoing negotiations."

Mr Harrap suggested the defence and prosecution have a case conference and adjourned the matter until January 20.