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Extradition in Russia is governed by federal statutes and international treaties to which the Russian Federation is a party. In Moscow, extradition matters involve federal agencies, courts, and the office of the Prosecutor General, with the final decision typically arising from federal authority based on treaty obligations and national law. The process can affect individuals regardless of whether they reside in Moscow or elsewhere in Russia, but Moscow often sees a high volume of cases due to its status as the capital and hub for international legal interactions.
Key components of the framework include constitutional rights, due process protections, and specific procedural rules for handling foreign requests. Local Moscow courts play a critical role in examining evidence, ensuring legitimate grounds for extradition, and assessing human rights risks. The overarching authority to approve or deny extradition rests with the appropriate federal bodies, guided by international commitments and domestic statutes.
Extradition decisions must align with international treaties the Russian Federation has entered into and are subject to domestic legal safeguards, including human rights protections and the right to legal counsel.Prosecutor General's Office of the Russian Federation
Scenario 1: You are under a formal extradition request from another country delivered to Moscow authorities, and you face potential surrender within weeks. A lawyer can map the exact grounds for extradition and identify grounds for challenge or refusal under Russian law. They can also coordinate with prosecutors to ensure due process and rights to defense are protected from the outset.
Scenario 2: The requesting state cites dual criminality or requires evidence standards that Moscow disputes. An attorney can scrutinize the translation, reliability, and sufficiency of the foreign evidence and explain Russian procedural standards. They can seek postponement or bail while the case is reviewed, reducing unnecessary detention risk.
Scenario 3: You may be at risk of political persecution, torture, or other human rights violations if extradited. A qualified lawyer can raise international and domestic safeguards, request court review of risk assessments, and pursue asylum or non-extradition arguments as appropriate.
Scenario 4: Your case involves complex transit arrangements or the possibility of temporary detention in another jurisdiction. A Moscow extradition attorney can negotiate detention options, review conditions, and ensure compliance with Russian and international rules.
Scenario 5: You require early warning about deadlines, appeal windows, or procedural steps that impact your freedom. A local lawyer can provide a concrete timeline, prepare filings, and coordinate with the Prosecutor General's Office and courts to protect your rights.
The primary legal framework for extradition in Russia includes the Constitution, the Criminal Procedure Code, and the Federal Law on Extradition, supplemented by relevant international treaties. The Constitution provides the foundational protections that apply to any extradition decision, including due process rights and the prohibition of arbitrary enforcement.
The Criminal Procedure Code of the Russian Federation (CPC) governs procedural aspects of extradition, including notice, defense rights, evidence standards, and appeal procedures. The CPC has been in force since the early 2000s and continues to be amended to refine extradition procedures and safeguards. In Moscow, the CPC provisions are applied by local courts and by federal authorities coordinating international requests.
Two to three core elements to understand are:
Recent practice in Moscow emphasizes enhanced procedural transparency and timely consultation with defense counsel. For current texts and updates, consult the official legal portal and agency sites listed below.
Key sources to review:
Official resources for current laws and updates include official federal portals and agency sites. See the Prosecutor General's Office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for guidance on how Russia implements extradition in practice.
Prosecutor General's Office - Extradition - coordinating legal oversight and international cooperation in extradition matters.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs - International cooperation - provides information on treaties and diplomatic processes related to extradition.
Ministry of Internal Affairs - Enforcement and police cooperation - handles the front-line processing of extradition cases with foreign partners.
Extradition is the formal surrender of a person to a foreign state for criminal proceedings or punishment. In Moscow, extradition requests are processed under federal law and international treaties, with court review for legality and human rights considerations.
Subject to extradition is determined by a foreign state’s request and admissibility under Russian law. A Moscow-based lawyer can review the request's basis, evidence, and compliance with due process.
Yes. An attorney can protect defense rights, challenge jurisdiction or grounds for extradition, and negotiate detention or release options. Early legal counsel improves the chance of favorable outcomes.
Timelines vary by case complexity and court schedules. Simple requests may resolve in a few months, while complex matters can take six months to a year or longer.
Possible grounds include political offenses, risk of torture or cruel treatment, or lack of sufficient evidence under Russian standards. Grounds also cover human rights protections and treaty constraints.
Russia generally does not extradite its own citizens; instead it may prosecute or sentenced them domestically if charged, under principles of sovereignty.
Costs include attorney fees, expert testimony, and court expenses. A typical full representation can range from several hundred thousand to several million rubles depending on case complexity.
Extradition involves surrender to another country for criminal proceedings, under international cooperation. Deportation is the removal of a non-citizen for immigration or security reasons, not for criminal prosecution.
Official guidance is available from the Prosecutor General's Office, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Review their English and Russian pages for up-to-date procedures and contacts.
The Prosecutor General's Office oversees legality, coordinates with foreign authorities, and can file or review extradition documents. It represents the state’s interests in proceedings.
Yes. You can appeal to higher courts within prescribed time limits, and your lawyer can file motions challenging evidentiary or legal grounds for extradition.
In some cases, applicants may seek asylum or other protective status if extradition would expose risk. This requires a separate legal process and credible evidence of danger.
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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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