The case of convicted murderer and sex offender Phillip John Smith could be delayed by fresh legal action.
Phillip John Smith Photo: RNZ
Smith is awaiting trial on charges of escaping from custody and committing passport offences.
He wants them dismissed on the basis his fair trial rights have been compromised by the police publishing media releases.
Police Commissioner Mike Bush has opposed Smith's bid to cross-examine him.
The case was called briefly today in the High Court in Auckland, where Justice Duffy made timetabling orders.
She referred to 23 media releases by the police that will form part of the case.