Extradition

Where crimes are alleged to have been committed outside the UK and the suspect is presently in the UK, foreign prosecuting authorities can apply to extradite a person to another country, either for questioning or to appear in the foreign court. There are generally three situations arising in extradition cases. In the European Union, cases are dealt with by a simpler fast track procedure where the requesting country applies for a European Arrest Warrant (EAW). For the rest of the world it will depend on whether the requesting Country has an extradition agreement with the UK. If there is an agreement an application can be made in the UK but is generally more involved than the EAW. For countries not having an extradition arrangement with the UK, then no application can be made. We can e mail you a full list of the relevant countries.

We are the only Solicitors Practice on the Fylde Coast who deal with extradition work and one of the very few outside Central London. We have specialised in extradition cases for over 20 years and dealt with some of the country’s most notorious cases involving money laundering by the Mafia and complex banking fraud. The only Court in England and Wales that can deal with extradition applications is the Westminster Magistrates Court in London. When a warrant is issued rapid action is required as hearings are often listed within 24 hours. It is essential to get immediate expert advice. If this should happen to you, call us immediately on 07770 443466 or see our Contact page.

We are members of the Extradition Lawyers Association, and monitor every extradition case in the country keeping us completely up to date with the changing patterns of law and procedure.

Legal Aid is available for most extradition cases. We will be pleased to provide any further information by telephone or e mail.