Los Angeles Extradition Attorney

Extradition Law

Extradition involves fugitives wanted for crimes across state lines. Extradition is the process by which one state sends a criminal suspect/defendant to another state to face criminal charges or to serve a sentence. There are two kinds of extradition cases involving fugitives seeking asylum:

• Arrested here, but the crime occurred in another U.S. state. The other state is called the demanding state or the wanting state. This individual (wanted criminal or fugitive), might not know that he/she is being accused of the crime in the wanting state, or may have fled from the wanting state to Los Angeles to seek asylum.
• Arrested for a crime committed in this state, but now living in another state to seek asylum. Again, the individual (wanted criminal or fugitive) may or may not know that he/she is wanted for a crime that occurred in California. In this case, California is the demanding state.

Under state law authorities may issue a warrant for extradition, and the fugitive can be arrested. An arrested individual is then required to return to the wanting state to face criminal charges.

Before an extradition arrest can occur, a series of legal proceedings must take place to protect the accused wanted criminal and ensure that extradition is valid. Depending on the case circumstances, an extradition waiver (dismissal) may apply at any time during these proceedings. However, it does take time, and you could be in jail while this happens.

In order to have an extradition case dismissed or resolved, there are a number of defenses pursued by a skilled Los Angeles criminal defense attorney. These may include:

• The lack of validity of the documents filed by the prosecutor
• Vague or incorrect "proof of identity" procedures that are required for extradition

In addition, an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer may negotiate with the wanting state to work out a resolution prior to extradition. There may be alternatives to extradition. Bail may be reduced or custody dismissed if the fugitive returns to the state voluntarily. The Interstate Family Support Act may apply (the accused doesn't have to leave the state where his/her family resides).

Experienced Extradition Lawyer In Los Angeles

Facing extradition is frightening because you could be sitting in jail time for 1-3 months just waiting for the extradition paperwork to be processed. You can't resolve the matter alone—you need an attorney with experience in extradition law.

We have assisted many defendants facing extradition. Contact a Los Angeles extradition attorneyat our office to arrange for a free consultation and discuss your extradition case.