Extradition Defense
Merit Law LLP specializes in defending clients in international extradition cases, understanding that extradition is a formal, treaty-governed process. For example, the U.S. and Turkey have a dedicated Extradition and Mutual Assistance Treaty (signed in 1979 and effective since 1981). We guide clients through each legal step required under these cross-border agreements. We also leverage international human rights law to safeguard individual rights. For example, the principle of non-refoulement forbids sending someone to a country where they could face torture or persecution. These safeguards give us powerful grounds to challenge an extradition request under international law.
Our attorneys handle INTERPOL Red Notices—international alerts to locate and provisionally arrest a person wanted for extradition —working with global law enforcement and data agencies to protect clients’ interests. Extradition often overlaps with immigration and asylum law, so we address those issues too. For example, if a client is an asylum-seeker or refugee, international law requires special protections: Extradition is not automatically barred, but the person’s protection needs must be carefully considered.
Throughout the process, we communicate clearly and with empathy, drawing on deep knowledge of both U.S. and Turkish law. Clients benefit from our experienced, dedicated team at every step of this complex, cross-border process.
