People charged with murder, P-dealing and some sexual and violence offences would find it harder to be freed on bail under proposals by the Government.
A bill to change the rules around granting bail, to be introduced to Parliament early next year, would also make bail more difficult for youngadults aged 17 to 19 who have already served time behind bars.
Prime Minister John Key said although defendants were innocent until proven guilty, too many committed crimes while on bail. "There are some people that are currently getting bail that we don't believe should ... they present a risk to the community."
At present, the prosecution has to prove an accused is a risk to public safety to have bail denied.
Under the new law, for certain offences the defence would have to prove the accused is not a risk to public safety or interfering with witnesses or evidence that would affect their trial.
This already applies to those with a history of sexual and violent offending. The law would extend this to include charges of murder, class A drug offences, sexual conduct with a person under 16, kidnapping, aggravated burglary, and assault with intent to rob.
The Ministry of Justice estimates it would cost an additional $4.5 million a year, to be covered by existing budgets.
The Law Society responded to the proposal with caution yesterday, neither welcoming nor dismissing it.
