The authors writing is quite moving, certainly moved me.

But taking a step back, my read is that the author wants the allegations to be essentially tried in detail here and now.

To what extent is this appropriate in such a hearing?

Other link you shared is useful here. Still I have no real insight into what to ordinarily expect. More neutral reporting source would be valuable.

From the article, Assange's very limited access to his legal team, of itself, seems appalling and very unfair on its face. Surely access is an easy thing to accommodate.