I’m writing this because I’m in total shock—a close family member was detained at an airport yesterday on an international warrant we knew nothing about. We are scrambling to find someone who even knows how this process starts. The local lawyers we called seem completely out of their depth; they just keep saying "it’s a federal matter." We have no idea what the next 48 hours look like. Does he get a hearing? Can we get him out on bail, or is he stuck there until he’s deported? If anyone has been through this "emergency" phase of an extradition case, please tell me what to expect. We are desperate.

I am so sorry, that is a terrifying situation to be in. The first 48-72 hours are critical. Usually, there is an initial hearing where the judge decides on detention or bail. The "default" in extradition is often to keep the person in custody because they are considered a flight risk, so you need a lawyer who can argue for bail immediately and convincingly. You cannot afford a "local generalist" right now; you need someone who can speak the language of international treaties and Interpol. I highly recommend contacting the team at extraditionlawyers.net They handle emergency interventions and can coordinate with local counsel to stop an immediate surrender. Every hour counts in these cases to prevent a fast-track extradition.

Thank you so much, we are contacting them right now. This is exactly the kind of specialized help we need.