Best Extradition Lawyers in Ghent

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Tok Ercan
Ghent, Belgium

English
Tok Ercan is a Belgian law firm based in Gent offering comprehensive legal services to individuals, businesses and public bodies across civil, criminal, corporate and administrative matters.The firm emphasizes thorough case analysis, practical problem solving and clear, transparent communication,...
Advocaat Nur Demirtas
Ghent, Belgium

1 person in their team
English
Advocaat Nur Demirtas operates from Gent, Belgium, as a focused criminal defense practitioner with a broader portfolio that includes traffic law, family and personal law, tenancy law, immigration, and debt collection. The practice is led by Nur Demirtas, an attorney at the Gent Bar, based at...
Intolaw Advocaten
Ghent, Belgium

Founded in 2010
English
Intolaw Advocaten stands out in the Belgian legal landscape for its dynamic approach to solving complex legal issues across multiple fields of expertise. With a team of dedicated specialists ranging from criminal law to traffic law, social law and liability, the firm offers targeted solutions...
Reya advocaten
Ghent, Belgium

Founded in 2024
5 people in their team
English
Reya Advocaten is a young and modern law firm based in Gent with additional offices in Zulte and Lokeren. The firm specializes in traffic law, real estate law, contracts and online entrepreneurship, delivering clear and practical legal solutions for both entrepreneurs and private clients. Its...
blomme.legal
Ghent, Belgium

Founded in 1965
7 people in their team
English
Blomme.legal is a Ghent based law firm with more than 50 years of experience in the areas it treats. The firm was founded in 1965 by Piet Blomme, and since 1995 has been led and expanded by August Blomme. Since September 2021 the office has been led by Bart Verhoeven (managing partner) and August...
Ghent, Belgium

Founded in 2015
1 person in their team
English
Advocaat Merel Colpaert is a Belgian law practice based in Ghent and Drongen, led by Merel Colpaert. The firm handles civil matters with a focus on Personen- en Familierecht, including divorce, end of cohabitation, child support and custody, and the distribution of assets after a relationship...

Founded in 2014
English
Ghent-based law practice Axel Brugman Advocatenkantoor focuses on business and contract law, liability matters, and real estate related issues. The firm provides practical, results-oriented advice to both companies and private clients, with a focus on timely contract drafting, efficient dispute...

7 people in their team
English
Van Hende Advocaten is a respected independent law practice in Gent, Belgium with a strong focus on criminal law in the broadest sense. The firm handles offences from road traffic violations to serious felonies, drug offences, sex offences, assaults and property crimes such as theft and fraud. Its...

Founded in 2011
1 person in their team
English
Advocatenkantoor Mieke Moorthamer is a boutique law practice based in Ghent, Belgium. Founded in 2011 by Mieke Moorthamer, the firm focuses on traffic law, criminal law, family law and civil and commercial matters. The practice is recognized for its high quality legal services, practical guidance...
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1. About Extradition Law in Ghent, Belgium

Extradition in Ghent falls under both Belgian national law and European Union frameworks. The backbone is the Belgian Code of Criminal Procedure, which governs how extradition requests are processed inside Belgium. In practice, cases involving cross-border surrender often rely on the European Arrest Warrant (EAW) mechanism for EU member states.

Ghent residents facing requests from other countries may interact with local prosecutors and courts as part of the process. The EAW creates a fast track for surrender between EU states, but it also requires due process safeguards for defendants. In all cases, Belgian authorities must respect fundamental rights and provide access to legal counsel.

For residents of Ghent, it is important to know that extradition matters can involve both national procedures and international agreements. Legal remedies, translation requirements, and rights to appeal are all part of the system. Always consult a local extradition attorney early to assess strategy and timelines.

The European Arrest Warrant is the primary instrument for cross-border surrender among EU member states.

For a concise overview of how the EAW functions within the EU, see the European Commission's official explanation: European Arrest Warrant - European Commission.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Ghent residents facing extradition or related proceedings often benefit from timely legal representation. Below are concrete, real-world scenarios where specialized extradition counsel can make a difference.

  • You receive an European Arrest Warrant while in Ghent. A lawyer can review the warrant for legal and factual accuracy and advise on challenging grounds or whether to contest surrender attempts.
  • A foreign state seeks your extradition for charges that may be politically motivated or lack sufficient basis in Belgian law. An attorney can assess grounds to refuse or condition extradition on guarantees.
  • You have a conviction in absentia abroad and request reconsideration of extradition due to potential violations of due process. A lawyer can raise procedural defects and ensure fair treatment in Belgium.
  • Your case involves multiple jurisdictions, including a non-EU country. An extradition attorney can coordinate with Belgian prosecutors and foreign authorities to avoid duplicative proceedings and protect rights.
  • You require translation and interpretation services during hearings, along with accessible legal aid. A local lawyer can arrange interpreters and explain complex procedures in plain terms.
  • You face possible remedies after an initial denial of extradition. A Belgian lawyer can file appeals or seek judicial review to preserve your rights.

3. Local Laws Overview

Ghent extradition matters hinge on several key legal instruments, including national procedures and EU frameworks. Below are two to three specific laws or regulations that govern extradition in Belgium and its courts, with notes on how they apply locally.

  • Wetboek van Strafvordering (Belgian Code of Criminal Procedure) - This is the main national statute that sets out the procedures for arrest, detention, trial, and extradition requests within Belgium. It governs how Belgian authorities evaluate foreign requests and how individuals may challenge them.
  • European Arrest Warrant Framework Decision (2002/584/JHA) - This EU framework establishes the general rules for cross-border surrender within the EU. Belgium implements and applies this decision through national law and administrative practice, affecting how extradition requests from EU states are processed in Ghent.
  • Belgian laws implementing bilateral and multilateral extradition treaties - Belgium maintains extradition treaties with several states and uses these treaties to manage non-EU requests. The Belgian system requires treaty-based grounds in addition to EU framework provisions when addressing extradition from non-EU jurisdictions.

Recent changes and updates to these instruments are published by official sources. For ongoing legal texts and current practice, consult the Belgian justice system and EU materials.

Relevant sources for formal texts and procedures include the Belgian Justice portal and the EU’s official explanations of the EAW. See the references below for authoritative context.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is extradition under Belgian law and when does it apply?

Extradition is the surrender of a person to another state to face criminal charges or serve a sentence. In Belgium, it relies on the Belgian Code of Criminal Procedure and international agreements, including the European Arrest Warrant for EU states.

How do I start a defense against an extradition request in Ghent?

Contact a Ghent-based extradition lawyer as soon as you receive notice. The attorney can assess grounds to oppose surrender and advise on timing for challenges or appeals.

Do I need a lawyer to handle an European Arrest Warrant case?

Yes. An attorney can review the warrant, advocate on your behalf, ensure rights to translation and counsel, and coordinate with both Belgian and foreign authorities.

How much can extradition defense cost in Ghent, Belgium?

Costs vary by case complexity and attorney experience. Expect consultation fees, court appearances, and potential translation expenses. A clear plan with an estimate should be requested upfront.

How long does an extradition procedure typically take in Belgium?

Timelines vary because of case specifics and international cooperation. A simple EAW matter may resolve in weeks; complex cases can extend for months.

Do I qualify for more options to delay or contest extradition?

Possible avenues include challenging legal grounds for surrender, questioning double criminality, or pursuing human rights-based defenses. A local lawyer can evaluate options.

What is the difference between extradition and deportation?

Extradition involves surrender for criminal proceedings or sentencing. Deportation removes a person from Belgium for immigration or security reasons. The legal bases and safeguards differ.

Can I appeal a decision to extradite me?

Yes. Belgian procedure generally allows for judicial review or appeal, depending on the specific decision and grounds. A lawyer can identify the best route.

Is political offense a barrier to extradition in Belgium?

Extradition may be refused if the offense is political or if extradition would violate fundamental rights. Legal counsel can contest or narrow the scope of a request.

What rights do I have during hearings and interviews?

You have rights to legal counsel, language interpretation, and fair treatment. An attorney can arrange translation and ensure procedures comply with due process.

Do international treaties affect Ghent extradition cases?

Yes. Treaties shape whether a request is admissible and influence the procedure when a foreign state seeks surrender from Belgium. A lawyer can interpret treaty implications for your case.

What are the practical steps I should take if I suspect an extradition request?

Seek immediate legal counsel, collect all documents related to the request, and avoid making statements that could affect your defense before counsel is present.

5. Additional Resources

These official resources provide authoritative information on extradition, European Arrest Warrant procedures, and Belgian practice.

6. Next Steps

  1. Identify the type of surrender request you face (EU European Arrest Warrant vs non-EU extradition) and collect all paperwork you have received.
  2. Consult a Ghent-based criminal defense or extradition attorney as soon as possible to review grounds for challenge or delay.
  3. Request a formal translation of documents if you need language support; ensure interpreters are available for all hearings.
  4. Discuss potential defenses with your lawyer, including rights under European and Belgian law, and potential grounds for refusal.
  5. Prepare for possible court appearances or hearings with your attorney, including gathering witness statements or documentary evidence.
  6. Confirm timelines and deadlines with your attorney, and avoid speaking with foreign authorities without counsel present.
  7. Follow up with the lawyer on any appeals or judicial reviews that may be available after initial decisions.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Ghent through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Extradition, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

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