Helping avoid extradition
We take a pro-active approach to advising clients who have concerns that a foreign country might be in the process of issuing an extradition request. We make every effort to prevent that from happening.
Advice received at an early stage in the case is important. A potential extradition request may be avoided if we make contact directly with the requesting state, or by instructing one of our international contacts to represent you on your behalf to the local prosecutor or court to either withdraw a domestic arrest warrant or suspend an outstanding prison sentence.
We have an extensive network of international contacts. We’re able to call upon them for advice and assistance at the local level. This ensures everything is done to avoid the worst effects of an extradition request and in an efficient and timely manner.
Advising on bail
If an extradition request is unavoidable, we can advise on bail and prepare structured bail packages in preparation for an extradition request being made. This can often lead to the granting of bail at the first hearing and avoid a return into custody. From the start of the case we ensure high-quality, realistic advice is given about the challenges often raised in an extradition request, and what the best options are to advance those challenges.
Preparing your case
The burden of proof in extradition cases is often upon the requested person. This means gathering evidence to support a challenge is one of the most crucial aspects of any extradition case. We will approach the task of collecting evidence with thoroughness and diligence, leaving no stone unturned.
We will take witness statements from all witnesses we believe can advance our case. We’ll ensure those witnesses attend court to give evidence. If necessary, we’ll get expert witness reports from recognised, credible and respected experts addressing issues, such as the conditions of detention and fair trial rights in the requesting country, in order to advance challenges under the European Convention on Human Rights.
We’ll also instruct lawyers in the requesting country to give advice upon their domestic criminal law and procedure. This is with a view to assess whether there’s a sound legal basis for the extradition request at the local level. We’ll therefore ensure that your case is as well prepared as it can possibly be by the time it becomes necessary to argue it before the court.
“There is no question that they’re among the best in the country. The strength and depth of their expertise is second to none.” Chambers, 2023
