Little doubt in this country that the Malaysian diplomat due back in New Zealand this week to face sex charges, will get a fair trial.

Muhammad Rizalman bin Ismail is expected to be sent back to New Zealand on Friday over allegations he assaulted with intent to rape Wellington woman Tania Billingsley.

There's concern the cases's presence in the media could threaten the impartiality of a trial.

However Canterbury University Dean of Law Chris Gallavin says the courts deal with a lot of high profile cases.

"Yes we are a small country, but I think a judge or a jury is able to put out of their minds the media speculation and the interviews."

Gallavin says the courts know how to deal with high profile cases.

"It is a bit difficult, but the courts are trying to ensure that they head off in the past any juror that might be tempted to consider evidence or information not produced in court by giving them very clear direction."