Best Extradition Lawyers in Yerevan

1. About Extradition Law in Yerevan, Armenia

Extradition in Yerevan operates within Armenia’s framework for international judicial cooperation. The process is guided by the Constitution, the Criminal Procedure Code (CPC), and international treaties to which Armenia is a party. Armenian authorities evaluate extradition requests based on legality, double criminality, and human rights safeguards before surrendering a person.

In practice, extradition decisions are typically initiated by a foreign state through formal channels and reviewed by Armenian prosecutors and courts. Where required, Armenia may also provide mutual legal assistance, inform consular access, and coordinate with foreign authorities on procedural steps.

Source: International cooperation in criminal matters under Council of Europe guidelines and UNODC guidance on extradition and mutual legal assistance. UNODC

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

• Urgent extradition warrants issued in Yerevan - A foreign state submits a formal extradition request for a person in Armenia. A lawyer can challenge admissibility, ensure proper notice, and protect constitutional rights from the outset.
• Possible political or national security grounds - If the offense involves political aspects or state security, a lawyer must assess treaty exceptions and non-extradition protections and argue for non-extradition or deferral as needed.
• Double criminality or treaty-based differences - The offense must be a crime in both Armenia and the requesting state, unless a treaty provides a broader standard. Counsel can analyze statutes and treaty terms to avoid misapplication.
• Detention, stay of extradition, or appellate review - If a person is detained, a lawyer can seek a temporary stay and pursue appeals or supervisory review to prevent unlawful detention or rushed surrender.
• Coordination with foreign counsel and consular rights - Armenian defense counsel helps coordinate with the requesting country’s lawyers and ensures consular access for the detainee where applicable.
• Post-extradition remedies and sentence review - If extradition proceeds, a lawyer can negotiate conditions of transfer, ensure humane handling, or pursue remedies if the decision is flawed or rights were violated.

3. Local Laws Overview

• Criminal Procedure Code of the Republic of Armenia - Governs extradition procedures, timelines, and rights to counsel during international cooperation. Adopted in 2003 and amended repeatedly, with notable updates in 2020-2023 to clarify procedures and safeguards.
• Law on International Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters - Establishes the framework for mutual legal assistance, including extradition requests, correspondence with foreign authorities, and execution of warrants. Originally enacted in 2006; amended to align with European and international standards in 2019-2021.
• Constitution of the Republic of Armenia - Sets the constitutional basis for international cooperation, human rights protections, and limitations on surrender in certain circumstances. The Constitution was adopted in 1995 and amended in 2005 and 2015, shaping how extradition and asylum considerations are treated in practice.

Recent trends in Armenia focus on harmonizing domestic procedure with international practice and ensuring robust human rights safeguards during extradition proceedings. For context, international bodies emphasize that extradition decisions must respect due process and proportionality.

Source: UNODC guidance on international cooperation in criminal matters and human rights safeguards in extradition. UNODC

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is extradition and how does it work in Yerevan, Armenia?

Extradition is the surrender of a person to another country for prosecution or punishment. Armenia reviews requests under the CPC and international treaties, with rights to counsel and challenges to admissibility.

What is double criminality in Armenia’s extradition process?

Double criminality means the alleged offense must be a crime in both Armenia and the requesting country, unless a treaty allows a broader standard. Armenian courts assess this before surrender.

How long does an extradition case typically take in Yerevan?

Timelines vary by complexity and treaty obligations, but preliminary decisions may take several weeks to a few months, with further delays possible for appeals or enhanced review.

Can Armenia deny an extradition request on political grounds?

Yes, extradition can be refused if the offense is political, or if surrender would violate Armenia’s constitutional protections or human rights obligations.

Do I need a local attorney to handle an extradition case in Armenia?

Yes. A local attorney familiar with CPC procedures, international treaties, and Armenian courts can protect rights, coordinate with foreign authorities, and manage filings.

What costs should I expect for extradition legal services in Yerevan?

Costs depend on case complexity and counsel experience. Expect a consultation fee plus hourly or flat-rate fees for planning, filings, and court appearances.

What is the appeal process for extradition decisions in Armenia?

You may appeal a decision to the relevant Armenian court, and in some cases seek supervisory review or a cassation appeal, depending on the ruling and treaty terms.

Is temporary detention or a stay of extradition possible in Armenia?

Yes, a court may grant a stay of extradition pending hearings, appeals, or to address urgent human rights concerns or procedural defects.

What is the difference between extradition and mutual legal assistance?

Extradition results in surrender for trial or punishment; mutual legal assistance covers cooperation in investigations, not surrender of a person.

Where can I find official Armenian extradition resources?

Official Armenian resources are available through the Ministry of Justice and the judiciary. For international guidance, consult UNODC and other recognized bodies.

What happens if the requesting country does not honor Armenian guarantees?

Armenia may review or suspend extradition, request clarifications, or seek protective measures to uphold human rights and treaty commitments.

Should I cooperate with authorities before consulting a lawyer?

Do not waive rights or make statements without counsel. A lawyer can guide you on when and how to cooperate to preserve defenses.

5. Additional Resources

• UNODC - International Cooperation in Criminal Matters - Provides global guidance on extradition procedures, treaties, and human rights safeguards.
• U.S. Department of State - Extradition and Mutual Legal Assistance - General guidance and country profiles relevant to extradition matters.
• OHCHR - Human Rights Safeguards in Extradition - Human rights standards that can affect extradition decisions and processes.

6. Next Steps

1. Clarify your situation and identify if an extradition request is in progress or anticipated. Gather any warrants, notices, and communication you have received.
2. Consult a licensed Armenian criminal defense attorney with experience in international cooperation and extradition. Schedule a formal consultation to discuss strategy and timelines.
3. Collect all relevant documents in Armenian and any foreign language, then have them translated if needed for court filings and treaty submissions.
4. Ask the attorney to map out the procedural path, including admissibility challenges, stay motions, and potential appeals, with a realistic timeline.
5. Prepare a list of questions about fees, anticipated costs, and payment structure before proceeding with engagements or filings.
6. Coordinate with the consulate if you are a foreign national, ensuring consular access and rights are protected during proceedings.
7. Proceed with filings and hearings as guided by your attorney, while tracking deadlines and documentation meticulously to avoid procedural lapses.