A judge is deciding whether to officially begin Kim Dotcom's extradition hearing, or consider a stay in proceedings.

The internet mogul appeared in Auckland District Court yesterday, along with his three co-accused.

The men face copyright infringement, racketeering and criminal conspiracy charges.

The US wants them extradited to face those charges, but their defence team is concerned there has been an abuse of process.

Judge Niven Dawson must decide whether to consider the defence's call for a halt in proceedings, before considering whether the men are eligible for extradition.

The defence wants time and access to restrained funds, plus the ability to pay US legal experts.

Lawyers for Dotcom and his co-accused argued yesterday that their applications to pause proceedings should be heard before the Crown case on behalf of the US.