After a brief hearing Monday, Judge Anna Maria Gatto immediately adjourned the trial until Jan. 20.

The three aides — Emilio Fede, an executive in Berlusconi's media empire; Nicole Minetti, a local politician and former showgirl; and talent agent Dario "Lele" Mora — are accused of recruiting women for prostitution and abetting prostitution, including of a minor.

They deny wrongdoing.

Berlusconi is being tried separately for allegedly paying for sex with the Moroccan girl, charges he denies. He faces a hearing in that case Wednesday, the first since he resigned as premier.