Extradition Solicitors | Extradition Legal Advice London & Nationwide

At Carson Kaye, we have specialist lawyers to support individuals who are subject to an extradition request by authorities overseas, including from countries which do not have an existing extradition agreement with the UK.

We also support high-net-worth individuals who may require legal support with regard to a politically motivated extradition request. We pride ourselves on the care and respect we offer each unique case. Rest assured that when you instruct the team at Carson Kaye, you’re choosing a solicitor who will fight your corner no matter the situation.

Our extradition solicitors for London and nationwide can advise on:

Understanding the Extradition Process
Types of Extradition Requests
European Arrest Warrants
International Extradition Requests
Your Rights During Extradition Proceedings

Contact our Extradition Solicitors

Extradition cases must be handled efficiently to ensure you get the outcome you deserve. Contact our specialist extradition solicitors today by calling us on 020 8075 4147 or sending an email to info@carsonkaye.co.uk: one of our solicitors will contact you promptly.

Whatever your case may be, we’ve got your back. Get in touch with our criminal investigations solicitors to give yourself the best chance of success

Why Choose Carson Kaye’s Extradition Solicitors?

At Carson Kaye, our team are dedicated to offering all of our clients the highest standard of legal advice, support and representation. While doing so, we seek to establish genuine relationships and we carefully tailor our services to suit the needs of the individual.

We are Tier 2 ranked by leading client guide The Legal 500, providing independent recognition of our skills and expertise in handling criminal law matters, including those related to extradition and international investigations.

We have established a strong track record of success in a wide range of sectors, including extradition and international investigations. Our team is here to offer practical, empathetic advice regardless of your position.

Understanding the Extradition Process

Extradition in the UK follows a structured legal process governed by the Extradition Act 2003.

If a foreign country asks the UK to surrender an individual for prosecution or to serve a sentence, a strict timeline is triggered, and every stage carries significant legal consequences.

Here's how the process typically unfolds:

Extradition Request Issued: A foreign country submits a request for someone to be surrendered to face prosecution or serve a sentence.
Arrest and First Court Appearance: The requested person is arrested and brought before a magistrates’ court for an initial hearing to confirm their identity and determine bail.
Case Preparation: The defence prepares legal arguments and gathers evidence, often under tight deadlines.
Extradition Hearing: A full hearing is held to decide whether the legal criteria for extradition are met and whether any defences apply.
Decision and Right to Appeal: If extradition is approved, the person may appeal within strict time limits based on legal or human rights grounds.
Surrender or Discharge: If extradition proceeds, the person is surrendered to the requesting country; if refused, they are discharged from proceedings.

Throughout this process, timely and informed legal advice is essential. Extradition proceedings can move quickly, and missing a deadline can severely weaken your case, leaving you in a precarious position looking forward.

Our extradition solicitors in London and nationwide provide rapid, strategic support at every stage, from the initial arrest to the final resolution.

Types of Extradition Requests

The UK recognises two main categories of extradition requests:

Category 1 (European Arrest Warrants): These are streamlined requests from EU countries under the European Arrest Warrant (EAW) system. While the UK is no longer an EU member, it continues cooperating under transitional agreements with some EU states.
Category 2 (Non-EU countries): These involve more complex procedures and apply to countries with formal extradition treaties with the UK, such as the United States, Australia, or Canada.

In addition to formal requests, international extradition requests may arise from Interpol Red Notices or diplomatic channels. Each type carries different legal standards and timeframes, requiring tailored legal strategies from an experienced extradition law firm.

Your Rights During Extradition Proceedings

If you are subject to extradition proceedings, you have several legal rights. These include the right to legal representation, to be informed of the charges or conviction behind the request, and to challenge the extradition in court.

You also have the right to raise objections based on human rights grounds, such as risks of torture, poor prison conditions, or an unfair trial abroad.

Our extradition law specialists ensure your rights are fully protected throughout the process. We provide clear, strategic extradition legal advice, supporting you during court hearings, evidence gathering, and any related bail applications or appeals.

Key Defences Against Extradition

There are several possible extradition defences available, depending on your circumstances. These may include:

Human rights objections, such as the risk of inhuman treatment or unfair trial
Passage of time, where too much time has passed since the alleged offence
Double jeopardy, if you have already been tried or punished for the same offence
Lack of dual criminality, where the conduct isn’t a crime in the UK
Unjust or oppressive proceedings, due to ill health or personal circumstances

Our extradition specialists will analyse every angle of your case to build a robust defence. We have successfully resisted extradition on a range of legal and humanitarian grounds, including for clients facing politically motivated prosecutions.

Types of Extradition Requests We Handle

European Arrest Warrants

The European Arrest Warrant (EAW) system allows for fast-track extradition between the UK and participating EU countries. EAW cases often proceed quickly, with strict deadlines and limited grounds for refusal. If you’re arrested under an EAW, it’s essential to act without delay.

Our team have extensive experience handling EAW cases and understands the procedural rules and common pitfalls. Clients choose our extradition solicitors in London and nationwide for their ability to swiftly navigate cross-border legal challenges and deliver robust defences that stand up in court.

International Extradition Requests

Extradition requests from countries outside the EU, such as the USA, Russia, India, or Turkey, tend to be more complex and time-consuming. These cases often involve political considerations, diplomatic negotiations, and detailed legal scrutiny.

The UK courts will carefully assess the fairness of the requesting country’s legal system and the risk of human rights violations.

Our extradition law firm is regularly instructed in high-profile international cases. We work with global legal partners to challenge extradition at home and abroad, ensuring no step in your extradition defence is overlooked.

Immediate Assistance for Extradition Cases

If you or someone close to you has been arrested or notified of an extradition request, getting urgent legal support is essential to protect your interests. The early stages are critical, including complex processes such as securing bail, challenging initial evidence, and preparing extradition appeals.

Our experienced team of extradition solicitors will act immediately to protect your freedom and reputation. Whether your case is linked to a complex fraud allegation, political charge, or serious criminal offence, we provide clear, decisive advice and representation. Speak to one of our extradition law specialists today for fast, strategic support.

FAQs about Extradition

Can Extradition be Refused on Human Rights Grounds?

Yes, extradition can be refused if it breaches the requested person’s human rights under the European Convention on Human Rights. Common grounds include the risk of inhuman or degrading treatment, an unfair trial, or disproportionate impact on private and family life.

The UK courts assess whether extradition would result in a real risk of such violations. Human rights arguments are complex and require expert legal advice to present effectively during proceedings or an appeal.

What Should I Do if I Receive an Extradition Request?

If you are subject to an extradition request, it is vital to seek legal advice immediately. Do not ignore the notice or attempt to deal with it alone. You will be required to appear in court quickly, and strict time limits apply to mounting a defence.

A solicitor specialising in extradition law can explain your rights, assess the grounds for resisting the request, and begin preparing your defence, including any human rights or procedural objections.

How Long Do Extradition Proceedings Typically Last?

The length of extradition proceedings varies depending on the complexity of the case and whether appeals are lodged.

Simple cases, particularly under the European Arrest Warrant system, may conclude within weeks. More complex or contested cases can last several months or longer, especially if human rights issues or political considerations are involved.

Appeals or delays in receiving supporting documents from the requesting state may also affect timing.

Can I Appeal an Extradition Decision?

Yes, you can appeal an extradition decision, but the process is subject to strict time limits — often as short as seven days from the decision. Appeals can be made to the High Court, and in some cases, to the Supreme Court or European Court of Human Rights.

Grounds for appeal typically involve legal errors, human rights concerns, or significant new evidence. A specialist solicitor can advise whether an appeal is viable and prepare the strongest possible case.

How Can a Solicitor Help Me Fight Extradition?

A solicitor plays a crucial role in challenging extradition by assessing the legality of the request and preparing a strong defence. This may involve raising human rights objections, identifying procedural flaws, challenging dual criminality, or arguing that extradition would be unjust or oppressive.

Your solicitor will represent you at court hearings, gather expert evidence, and handle negotiations with the requesting state if necessary. Their expertise can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Extradition & International Criminal Litigation