Name Suppression in New Zealand: Who Can Apply and When Is It Granted?
When you are charged with a criminal offence, your name and identifying details can often be published in the media and made publicly available. In some cases, this can lead to damage to your reputation, career, or mental health before your case is even resolved.
Fortunately, New Zealand law allows individuals to apply for name suppression in certain circumstances. Whether you are a first time offender, a public figure, or simply someone concerned about privacy, name suppression may help protect your future.
At Anj Singh Law, I regularly assist clients in applying for interim or permanent name suppression especially where reputational, safety, or mental health issues are involved. This blog explains how name suppression works, who qualifies, and what you need to know before applying.
What Is Name Suppression?
Name suppression is a court order that prevents your name and identifying details from being published or shared publicly. It can apply to:
Defendants
Victims
Witnesses
People connected to the accused (such as children or partners)
Suppression can be interim (temporary) or permanent (ongoing), depending on the nature of the case and the risk of harm.
Types of Name Suppression
1. Automatic Suppression
In some cases, suppression is automatic under the law. This includes:
Victims of sexual offending
Children and young people appearing in the Youth Court
People in certain family or care proceedings
You do not need to apply for suppression in these cases it is already protected by law.
2. Interim Name Suppression
This is a temporary order granted at the beginning of a case to prevent immediate publication. It is often granted when a charge is first laid, giving the defendant time to prepare a formal application for ongoing suppression.
Your lawyer must apply for this as soon as possible, usually at your first court appearance.
3. Permanent Name Suppression
This is a long term order that can only be granted by a judge if certain legal thresholds are met. It may apply even after a trial has ended, but the court must be satisfied that suppression is necessary and justified.
Grounds for Name Suppression
Name suppression is not granted automatically on request. The court will only approve it if publication would likely cause:
Extreme hardship to the defendant or someone closely connected
Undue hardship to a victim or witness
Prejudice to a fair trial
Real risk to personal safety
Potential harm to the justice system or public interest
Courts apply these tests strictly. Mere embarrassment or inconvenience is not enough. You must show credible evidence of real harm, which is why having an experienced lawyer is essential.
Common Examples of When Suppression May Be Granted
A professional facing loss of licence or job due to media coverage
A person with mental health issues at risk of harm from public exposure
A person with children or family members who would suffer serious consequences
A defendant in a high-profile case where media reporting would prejudice the trial
Someone facing charges that are later withdrawn or dismissed
I work with clients to gather evidence such as employer letters, medical records, or impact statements that support your application and strengthen your case.
What Happens If Suppression Is Breached?
Breaching a suppression order is a criminal offence. This includes:
Publishing the name or identifying details
Sharing on social media or online forums
Making indirect comments that lead to identification
Individuals and media outlets found in breach can face fines or other legal consequences. If you are subject to a suppression order, it is important to understand what it covers and what it does not.
Can I Appeal If Suppression Is Declined?
Yes. If your initial application is denied, you can:
Reapply with new evidence or changed circumstances
Appeal to the High Court within a set timeframe
Each case is unique, and some clients are successful on appeal after stronger submissions or further evidence is presented.
Protecting Your Privacy, Protecting Your Future
Name suppression is not just about avoiding headlines it is about fairness, safety, and the right to defend yourself without reputational ruin. At Anj Singh Law, I take a strategic and compassionate approach to suppression applications, ensuring your privacy is respected while your legal position is preserved.
Whether you are facing charges, appearing as a witness, or connected to someone involved in a case, you may have options.
📞 Contact Us Now to discuss whether name suppression is available in your situation. When your reputation and wellbeing are at stake, early advice can make all the difference.
