The past year has been particularly trying for International singer Shakira. After her parent’s health issues and her tumultuous split with long-time boyfriend Gerard Pique, the singer faced a further shock when she became the subject of an alleged $15.9 million tax fraud in July.

The Spanish government has accused the Colombian singer of not paying her income taxes for the years 2012 to 2014. Shakira in her defense claims to have not committed any wrongdoing as she claims to have not been living in Spain at the time of the alleged tax evasion.

Dive Deeper: “Pulled All the Strings to Protect…”- Gerard Pique and His Lawyer Contemplated “Darkest Moment” of Shakira’s Life to Evade From Tax Fraud

With the trials still going on, Shakira moved to Miami with her children in April to start a new life. According to Spanish law, one facing more than two years of jail time must be present at court— something Shakira had to take into account. Despite this reality, a relief of sorts has recently come through for Shakira.

Shakira receives a big leeway

Judge José Manuel del Amo, presiding over the case, has permitted Shakira to only attend court for the days that she has to testify, as revealed by EL PAIS. This leeway gives Shakira the ability to choose appropriate dates for her to make her statement in front of the court, based on her schedule. The agreement comes despite Spanish law stating the necessity of presence at the court.

This decision came last Thursday when the judge summoned all the parties involved in the case. The court agreed to her defenses and allowed her to choose the best timing for her appearances in court due to her professional commitment.

The move has come as a blessing for Shakira, who is still trying to clear her name from any wrongdoings. However, if proven guilty, Shakira could face 8 years in prison.

This leeway, however, gives the singer a chance to properly prepare a defense and present her case in court without any constraints or additional pressures of moving to Barcelona from Miami every time. In conclusion, the tax fraud case against Shakira could take many more months as the trial continues, but Shakira has been able to get the court’s permission for her to choose when she wants to testify.

WATCH THIS STORY: After Lionel Messi’s Wife’s Support, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Girlfriend Georgina Reacts to Shakira’s Heartmelting Farewell Message as She Departs for USA

The court’s decision certainly is a big relief for the singer in her attempts to seek relief from the case that emerged months ago. What are your thoughts on this big relief to Shakira? Let us know in the comments.