Best Extradition Lawyers in Pasig

1. About Extradition Law in Pasig, Philippines

Extradition in the Philippines is the legal process by which a person located in the Philippines may be surrendered to another country to face criminal charges or serve a sentence. The framework is grounded in Commonwealth Act No. 75 and supported by international treaties ratified by the Philippines. In Pasig, as in the rest of the country, extradition matters are handled through national law and court processes rather than by local Pasig ordinances.

Commonwealth Act No. 75 provides the framework for extradition in the Philippines.

Extradition proceedings involve coordination between the requesting state, the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Bureau of Immigration, and the courts. Local actors in Pasig, such as the Pasig City Prosecutor's Office and the Pasig Regional Trial Court, act within the national system to process requests. If you face an extradition action, your correct point of contact will usually be your attorney, the DOJ, and the court handling the case.

For a foundational understanding, consult authoritative sources such as the Philippine Lawphil repository for the text of Commonwealth Act No. 75 and related materials. Official guidance from the Department of Justice and Official Gazette can also clarify procedural steps and treaty contexts. See also the government references linked in this guide for official texts and updates.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Extradition cases involve complex intersections of national and international law. A Pasig-based lawyer can protect your rights and tailor defenses to your circumstances. Below are concrete scenarios where legal counsel is essential.

• A Pasig resident is the subject of a formal extradition request from a foreign government for alleged crimes abroad, and you need to understand the grounds for surrender and possible defenses.
• You are in Pasig and a foreign government seeks to have you extradited to face charges; you require counsel to assess dual criminality, political offense exceptions, and procedural safeguards.
• A relative residing in Pasig has been arrested abroad and the Philippines receives an extradition request; you need a lawyer to manage communications, stay proceedings, and protect due process.
• You anticipate or face a denial of extradition by the Philippine court and want to pursue post- decision remedies or appeals; a lawyer can guide the appropriate route.
• You want to challenge the basis of the extradition request on grounds such as human rights, due process, or misidentification; an attorney can file appropriate motions and defenses.
• You are negotiating surrender terms, bail considerations, or treatment conditions while the case moves through Pasig courts and DOJ processes; a lawyer helps negotiate and document agreements.

3. Local Laws Overview

Extradition in Pasig relies on national law and international treaties to which the Philippines is a party. The primary domestic statute is Commonwealth Act No. 75, which establishes the framework for surrender of fugitives. International agreements set the rules for how such requests are exchanged and executed across borders.

Key legal references include:

• Commonwealth Act No. 75 - An Act to provide for the extradition of fugitives from justice. This act forms the core Philippine statutory basis for extradition requests and proceedings. Lawphil - Commonwealth Act No. 75
• Extradition Treaties - The Philippines has entered into international extradition treaties with partner states, which guide when and how fugitives may be surrendered. These treaties cover processes, jurisdiction, and the types of offenses eligible for extradition. Official Gazette and Lawphil host treaty texts and summaries where available.
• Department of Justice Guidelines and Procedures - DOJ procedural guidelines govern how extradition requests are initiated, reviewed, and prosecuted within the Philippines, including in Pasig. DOJ Official Website

Recent trends emphasize careful adherence to dual criminality and proper notice periods, with courts in Manila Metro and Pasig applying established jurisprudence. For practical steps, a Pasig-based attorney can locate the exact DOJ circulars and treaty texts applicable to your case and explain how they affect timing, charges, and potential defenses.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is extradition in the Philippines and how does it work?

Extradition is a formal surrender process to another country for alleged crimes or penalties. It starts with a request from a foreign government and ends with a court decision in the Philippines on whether to surrender the person.

How do I know if I am eligible for extradition in Pasig?

Eligibility depends on the foreign charge, the offenses listed in the treaty or law, and whether dual criminality exists. A Pasig attorney can evaluate the charges and the applicable treaty provisions.

What is dual criminality and why does it matter in extradition?

Dual criminality requires that the offense be punishable under both Philippine law and the requesting country’s law. If not, the extradition request may be denied or limited.

Do I need a lawyer for extradition in Pasig and when should I hire one?

Yes. Extradition involves procedural and substantive defenses, including treaty interpretation and due process. Hire a lawyer as soon as you receive a formal notice or a request for surrender.

How long does the extradition process typically take in the Philippines?

Timeframes vary widely, from several months to a few years, depending on the complexity of the case, treaty negotiations, and court schedules in Manila and Pasig.

What are the typical costs of extradition defense in Pasig?

Costs include attorney fees, court filing fees, and potential expert consultations. An initial consultation can clarify estimated ranges and payment structures.

Where are extradition hearings held for Pasig residents?

Hearings generally occur in the Philippine courts with jurisdiction over the case, often in Metro Manila, including Pasig-area courts and the DOJ field offices.

Can extradition be challenged on political offense grounds?

Yes, extradition can be challenged if the offense is political or if surrender would violate fundamental rights. Legal counsel can develop this defense based on case facts.

Is there a difference between extradition and deportation in this context?

Extradition involves surrender to another country for criminal proceedings; deportation concerns removal from the Philippines for immigration reasons, not criminal charges abroad.

What documents are typically needed to start extradition defense?

Common documents include the foreign charge details, case numbers, arrest warrants, treaty texts, and identification documents. Your lawyer will tailor a checklist for Pasig cases.

What is the role of the Department of Justice in extradition cases?

The DOJ reviews and approves extradition requests, coordinates with foreign authorities, and represents the Philippines in formal surrender proceedings.

Should I contact a lawyer if I receive an extradition notice in Pasig?

Yes. Early legal advice helps protect rights, evaluate defenses, and plan the next steps with the DOJ and the courts.

5. Additional Resources

• - Official government agency responsible for initiating and supervising extradition proceedings in the Philippines. https://www.doj.gov.ph
• - Official repository for Philippine statutes including Commonwealth Act No. 75 and related jurisprudence on extradition. https://lawphil.net
• - Government publication for treaties and executive instruments, including extradition treaties and notices. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph