Best Extradition Lawyers in New Orleans

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Phelps Dunbar LLP.
New Orleans, United States

Founded in 1853
300 people in their team
English
Our health law attorneys represent hospitals, physicians, managed care organizations and other health care providers throughout the Southeast as counsel on corporate, tax and regulatory matters. We also represent our health care clientele in a variety of health care related areas, including labor...
Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP.
New Orleans, United States

Founded in 1974
1,688 people in their team
English
As the only law firm with offices and attorneys in all 50 states, we deliver maximum value to our clients by combining the resources of a full-service national firm with the local knowledge of a regional firm. Featuring more than 1,000 lawyers nationwide, we provide comprehensive litigation and...
Stone Pigman Walther Wittmann L.L.C.
New Orleans, United States

Founded in 1940
100 people in their team
English
At Stone Pigman, we believe that outstanding lawyers deliver superior client service.  Stone Pigman attorneys are experienced, creative and focused on finding the best solutions for our clients.  Our goal is to help our clients advance their interests and grow their businesses, whether...
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1. About Extradition Law in New Orleans, United States

Extradition law governs how a person accused or convicted of a crime can be transferred from one jurisdiction to another for prosecution or punishment. In New Orleans, as in the rest of Louisiana, interstate extradition mainly involves requests between states, while international extradition involves foreign countries and federal processes. The core framework combines the U.S. Constitution, federal statutes, and state procedures that apply to Orleans Parish and surrounding areas.

The U.S. Constitution provides the Extradition Clause, which requires states to surrender fugitives to the demanding state upon proper request. The federal government mainly coordinates international extradition and inter-state procedures through statutes and executive actions. In practice, a New Orleans resident may face extradition to another state if that state alleges crimes and issues a formal demand. A lawyer can help protect rights during every step of the process.

“Extradition between states is governed by the Extradition Clause of the U.S. Constitution and federal law, with procedures that begin when a governor requests surrender from another state.”
For a high level view of the constitutional basis, see the Constitution Annotated. Extradition Clause - Article IV.

Federal statute 18 U.S.C. § 3184 details the procedure when one state demands extradition from another state, including the governor's role and the eventual surrender process.
See the U.S. Code for the exact language and applications. 18 U.S.C. § 3184.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

In New Orleans, specific scenarios frequently require legal counsel during extradition matters. A lawyer helps protect rights, negotiate terms, and appeal improper actions by the requesting state or local authorities.

  • A client is held in Orleans Parish facing an extradition demand from Texas for alleged crimes committed there, and the defense seeks to challenge the validity of the demand or the sufficiency of evidence.
  • A suspect in Louisiana is subject to extradition for a non violent burglary case in Mississippi, and counsel files a timely request for an evidentiary hearing to contest extradition on process grounds.
  • A defendant is charged with drug offenses in Georgia while located in New Orleans; counsel coordinates between state and federal processes to determine jurisdiction and avoid improper transfer.
  • The client has a potential right to waive extradition, but the waiver could affect plea strategies or bail conditions; a lawyer will explain consequences and protect options.
  • A person faces a large travel or relocation cost to be transported across state lines; a lawyer can negotiate bond conditions, conditions for release, and timing that minimizes disruption.
  • There is a concern about the defendant's rights during interstate hearings, such as Miranda rights or the right to counsel; a lawyer ensures hearings are fair and properly documented.

3. Local Laws Overview

New Orleans follows both federal law and Louisiana procedures for extradition. The governing framework includes constitutional provisions, federal statutes, and state level rules that apply to inter state debates and formal demands for surrender.

The basic legal pillars you should know are:

  • U.S. Constitution Article IV, Extradition Clause - Requires states to honor extradition requests from other states, with limited exceptions. See official summary and discussion on the Constitution Annotated.
  • 18 U.S.C. § 3184 - Federal statute detailing the process when one state makes a formal demand for extradition from another state; it covers the governor's involvement, procedures, and timing.
  • Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure - Louisiana laws that implement extradition within the state and in coordination with other states, including the role of the governor and the court in the surrender process.

Recent public guidance emphasizes that extradition remains a between state process rooted in the Constitution, while the practical steps are governed by federal and state rules. For federal structure, see the Department of Justice and the U.S. Marshals guidance linked below.

Interstate extradition processes are primarily statutory and constitutional, with limited discretion after a formal demand is made.

Useful official resources include:

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is extradition and how does it work in Louisiana?

Extradition is the surrender of a person to another state for prosecution. In Louisiana, the process starts when another state requests surrender and a governor's warrant may be issued after a court review.

How long does interstate extradition typically take in New Orleans?

Industrial timelines vary by case complexity, but most straightforward extraditions in Louisiana occur within 2 to 6 weeks after the formal demand, assuming no legal challenges.

What is the difference between extradition and removal in this context?

Extradition is a formal surrender between jurisdictions for prosecution or punishment. Removal is a broader term that can involve relocation for various legal reasons, and it is not the same as the formal extradition procedure.

Do I need a Louisiana lawyer for extradition proceedings?

Yes. A Louisiana attorney with extradition experience can review the demand, protect rights, request hearings, and coordinate with local and other state authorities.

What rights do I have during an extradition hearing in New Orleans?

You have rights to counsel, to challenge the validity of the demand, to be present, and to present evidence. An attorney can file motions to delay, modify, or halt surrender if appropriate.

Can I challenge the validity of an extradition demand?

Yes. Potential grounds include improper service, lack of probable cause, or incorrect jurisdiction. A lawyer can file a formal challenge and seek a stay of surrender.

Should I waive extradition, and what could that mean for my case?

A waiver ends the immediate delay and allows surrender, but it may limit options for appealing procedures or challenging the demand. A lawyer can assess strategic consequences.

Do extradition costs fall on the defendant or the state?

Costs can include travel, lodging, and attorney fees. Typically, the defense bears its own legal costs, while some transport costs may be set by the states involved.

How do I locate a qualified extradition lawyer in New Orleans?

Look for an attorney who lists extradition or interstate criminal procedure as a specialty and check references from prior extradition cases in Louisiana.

What is a governor's warrant and when is it used?

A governor's warrant is a formal directive authorizing surrender to another state following a successful extradition request. It is typically issued after a court review or a waiver is considered.

Is foreign extradition different from inter state extradition?

Yes. Foreign extradition involves treaties and federal procedures, often requiring different agencies and timelines than inter state requests.

Can I appeal an extradition decision in Louisiana?

Appeals in extradition matters depend on the specific procedural posture. An attorney can guide you on possible post hearing motions or appeals.

5. Additional Resources

6. Next Steps

  1. Identify the exact state making the extradition demand and collect all documents related to the case, including the governor's warrant and court filings.
  2. Schedule an immediate consultation with a New Orleans extradition attorney, preferably with local Orleans Parish experience and a track record in interstate matters.
  3. Provide your attorney with any arrest records, bond conditions, and prior communications from the requesting state.
  4. Determine whether to contest the extradition or seek a waiver, and discuss possible hearings and deadlines with your counsel.
  5. Agree on a case strategy, including timelines for potential hearings, stays, or appeals, and estimate all legal costs.
  6. Attend all hearings with your attorney, present evidence and witnesses as needed, and follow court orders regarding surrender or stay of extradition.
  7. Regularly review the process with your attorney to adjust strategy as new documents or dates emerge. Expect several weeks to months depending on the case.

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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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