Actress Winona Ryder is expected in court on Wednesday on shoplifting charges after the case was delayed by a day.

The Hollywood star is accused of stealing nearly $6,000 (�3,820) worth of goods last year from the exclusive department store Saks Fifth Avenue in Los Angeles.

The case was postponed by the judge on Tuesday after one of the lawyers was unable to attend.

A hearing to consider whether to drop a drugs charge against the actress was also adjourned until Wednesday.

The actress has denied charges of second degree burglary, grand theft, vandalism and drug possession dating from last December.

Statement offered

Prosecutors have asked the judge to dismiss a charge that the actress illegally possessed a painkiller.

Outside court Lawyer Shepard Kopp said he expects the case to be further delayed until next week to allow defence lawyer Mark Geragos to complete a separate trial.

Ms Ryder has made several court appearances

He said the 30-year-old actress, who has been on bail since her arrest, would be in court on Wednesday.

"She's looking forward to her day in court.

"She's pleased the district attorney's office has reevaluated their position on the drug count."

The case was postponed until Wednesday after lawyers met the judge in his chambers.

Prosecution lawyers say the defence offered a sworn statement from someone who said the actress had reason to carry the painkillers, a form of the prescription drug Percocet, when she was arrested.

The case has been subjected to many delays as both sides have argued over details.