Amanda (pictured), who joined the Archant London paper’s newsdesk in March, argued her case against the barristers after the court was cleared by magistrates, assisted through texts by news editor Zjan Shirinian and fellow trainee Lizzie Dearden.
One barrister argued that the order was needed to protect the mother and sister of a defendant from retribution, adding that it was “just an address” and he didn’t see how it was in the public interest. The other four barristers used a similar argument.
Amanda said: “I argued that a Section 11 was usually used in cases of blackmail and national security, neither of which was relevant here.
“Also, it can be used to protect witnesses involved in a case if it is in the interests of justice. As their families were not witnesses this was not relevant either.”
She added: “It is not the street name itself that is important but the notion of open justice.”
Amanda and the barristers were sent out for around 30 minutes while the magistrates deliberated before they refused the Section 11 application.
Editor Chris Carter praised the determination of his team. “It’s a fine example of well trained, professional journalists upholding the freedom of the press in reporting court cases.
“I am particularly delighted at the way my team pulled together to support Amanda, in order that we achieved the correct result.”
Amanda said: “While it’s tempting to be blasé about taking on five barristers and their solicitors with three alleged murderers in the dock all looking at you, it was intimidating and knowing that Zjan and Lizzie had my back meant a hell of a lot to me that morning.”
