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Extradition in Lithuania is guided by national statutes and international treaties. In Kaunas, as in the rest of the country, authorities follow the Extradition Act and the Criminal Procedure Code when handling surrender requests.
Lithuania participates in European and international frameworks, including the European Arrest Warrant (EAW) system for EU member states. Extradition decisions may involve checks for double criminality, human rights protections, and timely surrender standards set by European Union mechanisms.
“The European Arrest Warrant framework provides a streamlined approach to surrender between member states while preserving fundamental rights.”
Source: European Commission - Extradition and the European Arrest Warrant
“Extradition requests are subject to judicial review in national courts and may be challenged on grounds such as proportionality, necessity, or human rights concerns.”
Source: Council of Europe - Extradition and Human Rights Principles
In Kaunas, extradition proceedings can quickly become complex, requiring precise interpretation of both Lithuanian law and international rules. A competent lawyer helps protect your rights from the outset and navigates the process efficiently.
The following Lithuanian laws and regulations govern extradition in Kaunas and nationwide. They shape how requests are received, reviewed, and executed and how appeals are handled.
Lithuanian Extradition Act (Ekstradicijos įstatymas) - This primary statute coordinates national surrender procedures and aligns with international and EU obligations. It sets thresholds for admissible requests, necessary grounds for surrender, and timelines for procedural steps.
Criminal Procedure Code (Baudžiamojo proceso kodeksas) - This code governs arrests, detention, hearings, evidence, and appeals in extradition cases. It ensures due process rights for suspects in Kaunas and across Lithuania.
Law on International Judicial Cooperation in Criminal Matters (Tarptautinės teisinės pagalbos baudžiamuose bylose įstatymas) - This framework regulates international cooperation, including requests for extradition, information exchange, and assistance with criminal investigations in cross-border matters.
Recent changes in EU and Lithuanian practice focus on harmonizing procedures with the European Arrest Warrant framework and ensuring human rights protections during surrender processes. For example, Lithuania has updated practice to emphasize timely decisions and clear avenues for challenge in accordance with EU standards.
Extradition is the formal surrender of a person by one country to another for criminal prosecution or punishment. In Kaunas, surrender requests follow Lithuanian law and EU rules, with court review and possible appeals available to protect rights.
A person may be subject to extradition if a foreign authority submits a valid request that meets legal criteria. A lawyer can review the specifics, including the substantive offense and procedural grounds, to determine applicability.
Challenges can be raised on grounds such as human rights risks, double criminality, proportionality, or violations of procedure. A timely position by counsel is crucial to preserve rights and remedies.
Extradition hearings are conducted in Lithuanian courts with jurisdiction over such matters, under the supervision of the national judiciary. Local prosecutors and defense counsel participate in the process.
Extradition involves complex cross-border law, procedural timelines, and rights protections. A lawyer helps to interpret the law, prepare defenses, and coordinate with authorities to safeguard interests.
Yes. You can argue that surrender may violate rights, such as the right to a fair trial or protection against torture, and present evidence to the court. The court weighs these concerns in its decision.
Lithuania does not comply with extradition to states where the death penalty is pursued, under EU and Council of Europe standards. Counsel can argue this point to prevent surrender.
Double criminality requires that the offense in the requesting country also constitutes a crime in Lithuania. Depending on the case, this condition can be decisive for granting or denying surrender.
EU requests operate under the European Arrest Warrant framework, often with faster procedures and limited grounds for refusal. Non-EU requests follow Lithuania's general extradition framework and treaties.
Duration varies by case complexity, but EU EAW matters may be decided within weeks to months, while non-EU requests can take longer due to treaty-based procedures and domestic appeals.
Legal aid options exist in Lithuania for serious criminal matters. A lawyer can assess eligibility and guide you to appropriate public or non-profit resources if needed.
Use these official sources to understand extradition frameworks, rights, and procedures in Lithuania and the EU:
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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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