A request from another country raises very specific questions: what it means for you, what could happen in Spain and who can take on your defence. If a family member has also been arrested, you need to know where to start and which information will help a lawyer act.
At EXLEGEBCN, a law firm in Barcelona, we have extensive experience in INTERPOL-related matters and extradition proceedings. We have achieved favourable outcomes for our clients, including proceedings in which extradition was avoided. Our experience also includes cases involving citizens of countries of the former Soviet Union. This work requires careful reading of what each country is requesting and how it relates to decisions already taken in the case.
When someone has already been arrested
We first need to know where the person is, which authority is involved and whether a hearing is approaching. We can then organise legal assistance, examine the documents available and explain the decisions that need preparation. Depending on the stage of proceedings and the agreed engagement, our work may include legal assistance, submissions, applications for release or other appropriate measures, and appeals.
If a family member contacts us, they can begin by telling us what they know. We will explain which information we need and how to arrange communication with the person concerned, respecting their authorisation and confidentiality.
What we examine to prepare the defence
Before recommending how to proceed, we need to understand which decision supports the request, the events it concerns and what has happened since. Dates, subsequent decisions and any discrepancies between documents matter. We also need to know which proceedings are open in Spain and which issues require action abroad. That information allows us to define the work and its priorities.
An INTERPOL notice and extradition proceedings require different steps that need to be coordinated. We assess the defence before the Spanish authorities and, where there are grounds, possible requests to the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL’s Files, known as the CCF.
Documents from another country may need translation or clarification of a decision. If action is required where the case is being pursued, we coordinate that part with professionals authorised to practise there. It should be clear from the outset who handles each step and what the engagement covers.
As the work progresses, we explain what we are preparing, which documents are missing and which decisions you need to consider. If a question cannot yet be answered, we will tell you.
Speaking to our firm
You can consult us when you first learn of the request, when proceedings are already under way in Spain or when you have a new decision that needs reviewing. For the initial contact, explain what has happened and provide the communications or documents you have. Tell us at the outset if someone has been arrested or a court appearance is approaching.
After reviewing the available information, we will propose the scope of our involvement and the fees. If other professionals or work in separate stages are needed, we will specify this so you know which service you are engaging.
Contact EXLEGEBCN so we can examine your situation and assess how to take on your defence in Spain.
This page presents the firm’s services and does not constitute individual legal advice. Each matter requires examination of its circumstances and documents. Outcomes achieved in previous proceedings do not guarantee a similar result in other cases. The scope of our involvement and the terms of the service are set out in the relevant professional engagement.