How Extradition of Convicts and Detainees Works in Georgia

The extradition of convicts and detainees between Turkey and Georgia is a significant aspect of criminal justice cooperation between the two countries. Being neighboring states with close diplomatic ties, the extradition process is governed by both national legislation and international agreements. In this article, with insights from the experts at Cosmos Legal Law Firm, we explain how convict and detainee extradition procedures are carried out in Georgia.

1. Legal Basis for Extradition
Extradition between Georgia and Turkey is based on:

• Bilateral treaties signed between Turkey and Georgia

• The European Convention on the Extradition of Offenders (1957)

• Each country’s Criminal Procedure Code and relevant legislation

Extradition requests are evaluated with mutual trust and in accordance with the principles of the rule of law.

2. Crimes Eligible for Extradition
Extradition is generally possible in cases involving:

• Serious crimes (murder, drug trafficking, organized crime, terrorism, etc.)

• Acts considered crimes in both countries

• Crimes punishable by at least one year of imprisonment

Political offenses, military crimes, and crimes related to freedom of expression are generally excluded from extradition.

3. How the Extradition Process Works

Request Stage

• Turkey or Georgia submits the extradition request through diplomatic channels.

• The request includes the individual’s identity, description of the crime, and court decisions.

Temporary Detention

• In urgent cases, Georgian authorities can provisionally detain the individual at Turkey’s request.

Court Procedure

• Courts in Georgia review the extradition request according to national law.

• The extradited individual’s right to defense is protected.

Decision and Implementation

• After court approval, extradition is carried out via the Ministries of Justice.

• The individual is handed over to the requesting country’s authorities at a designated border or on a scheduled date.

4. Extradition from Turkey’s Perspective

• Extradition of Turkish citizens to Georgia is generally prohibited under the principle of “non-extradition of citizens” in the Turkish Constitution.

• Extradition of foreign nationals is generally faster and follows standard procedures.

5. Role of Cosmos Legal
Extradition of convicts and detainees is a highly technical and sensitive legal process. Cosmos Legal Law Firm provides professional support in:

• Legal review of extradition requests

• Preparing defense strategies under international agreements

• Representation before judicial authorities in Georgia or Turkey

• Protecting human rights throughout the extradition process

• Monitoring mutual legal assistance procedures