Extradition Law

Our private extradition solicitors at JMW are experienced in successfully defending individuals who face the prospect of extradition. We provide specialist strategic advice at each stage of proceedings and have a track record of successfully challenging European and other overseas arrest warrants.

An individual could be subject to extradition if they have been accused, or convicted, of a crime in a country outside of the UK. The law enforcement body of that country may seek for the individual to be returned to the jurisdiction to serve a sentence that has already been imposed, or for them to stand trial in cases of accusation warrants. We maintain close working relationships with a vast network of international lawyers, as well as trusted experts and advisors to assist our clients when this is required. 

If an extradition request has been made against you and you would like to speak to a solicitor, contact our London-based team on 0345 646 1740 or complete an online enquiry form to let us know a convenient time to call you back.

How JMW Can Help

Extradition law is a highly specialist field but one that is increasingly important due to the level of cooperation in modern cross-border law enforcement. Our team have wide-ranging practical knowledge of the possible arguments available to resist extradition and to challenge Interpol red notices. We can proactively manage cases at an early stage, prior to any formal requests having been made, to prevent a warrant being issued in the first place. 

Our strategic approach has enabled us to robustly challenge extradition on technical procedural grounds, and on human rights grounds under the ECHR such as the right to respect for private and family life, the right to a fair trial (Article 6) and the right to not be subjected to inhumane or degrading treatment. 

We provide a bespoke private service to each client at every stage of the case, from initially securing bail to compiling complex evidence for formal hearings. 

If extradition is ordered by the Court of first instance, we can advise on appeal to the High Court and subsequently to the Supreme Court and to the European Court of Human Rights.  

At JMW, our Business Crime & Regulation team offers an in-depth service, able to draw upon the experience of other departments within the firm, including immigration, public law, dispute resolution, family,  reputation management and media law. 

We can also ensure that appropriate protections are in place should an extradition request be made, such as putting forward a persuasive bail package and liaising with specialist lawyers in the requesting country. It is vital to seek expert legal advice as early as possible to help you achieve a favourable outcome in your extradition case.

The Extradition Process 

Extradition is the process by which a person is transferred, often against their will, to face prosecution, trial or sentencing in another country.
A person can be liable for extradition if they are accused or convicted of a crime in a foreign country. Countries without an existing extradition arrangement with the UK are able to extradite individuals through special circumstances.
If an arrest is made, a bail application will be submitted at the first appearance. Where an extradition request is made, our team will thoroughly review the background circumstances and provide clear advice on the opportunities to challenge it. 

Grounds to challenge  extradition include:

• Human rights considerations, such as the right to a fair trial, the right to a family life, and the right not to suffer inhuman or degrading treatment
• Defence against specific content in the extradition request
• UK exemptions, including the passage of time since the offending behaviour, dual-criminality, double jeopardy, and the physical or mental health of the accused

Our team is skilled in gathering and presenting the best possible evidence to support any challenges to extradition.