Closing arguments in the murder trial of Michael Rafferty have been pushed back.

They had been set to begin Friday -- but both defence and prosecution lawyers said they needed more time to prepare.

Closing arguments are now scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, and the judge's final instructions to the jury are set for Wednesday.

The 31 year old Rafferty has pleaded not guilty to kidnapping, sexual assault and first degree murder in the death of Victoria Stafford.

The eight year old's body was found buried under a pile of rocks near Mount Forest several weeks after she was abducted from in front of her school in Woodstock on April 8th, 2009.

Rafferty's former girlfriend -- Terri-Lynne McClintic -- earlier pleaded guilty to Tori's murder and is serving a life sentence.