The lawyer for convicted murderer and sex offender Phillip John Smith has taken the unusual step of asking the High Court to reverse suppression orders in his client's case.
Phillip Smith Photo: RNZ / Murielle Baker
Smith's case was called at the High Court in Auckland this morning, where lawyer Tony Ellis asked for suppression orders to be lifted on two pre-trial judgements.
Justice Lang said the orders were in place to protect Smith's right to a fair trial but said he would talk to the other judge involved before issuing a decision.
Smith is due to face trial early next year for fleeing the country but has lodged a legal bid to halt the court action.
He was arrested after flying to Brazil last year while on temporary release from prison.