What Does Facing Extradition Mean? A Complete Guide for Defendants and Families

January 27, 2026

Facing extradition can be one of the most overwhelming experiences in the criminal justice system. Whether you're stopped during routine travel, arrested on an out-of-state warrant, or informed that another country wants you transferred, extradition can dramatically impact your freedom and your future.


At Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A., our Miami criminal defense lawyers regularly represent clients in both interstate and international extradition matters, ensuring their rights are protected every step of the way.

This guide breaks down what extradition means, how the process works, and why having an experienced defense attorney is critical.

What Is Extradition?

Extradition is a legal process where one state—or even a foreign country—requests that an individual be surrendered and transported to face criminal charges, sentencing, or punishment.

Extradition typically applies when a person is:

• Wanted for criminal charges.


• A suspect in an investigation.


• Convicted but failed to complete sentencing.


• Accused of failing to appear in court.

Because extradition involves multiple governments, the process is highly technical. Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. has decades of experience defending clients caught in these complex situations.

Types of Extradition

1. Interstate Extradition (State-to-State)
Interstate extradition is the most common and is governed by the U.S. Constitution and the Uniform Criminal Extradition Act (UCEA).

You may be arrested in Florida for a warrant from:

• Georgia


• Texas


• New York


• Any other U.S. state

Our attorneys at Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. regularly challenge defective warrants, improper paperwork, and unlawful detention in interstate extradition cases.

2. International Extradition
International extradition is far more complicated and involves:

• Extradition treaties


• The U.S. Department of State


• Federal courts


• Charges filed by foreign governments

International extradition cases often involve serious charges, political considerations, and human rights concerns.
Our legal team at Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. provides experienced representation for clients facing international extradition from or to the United States.

When Does Extradition Occur?

You may face extradition if you:

• Were arrested on an out-of-state or foreign warrant.


• Missed court in the requesting jurisdiction.


• Left the state during probation or parole.


• Are wanted for a crime you may not even know about.


• Are the subject of a foreign criminal complaint.

Clients often contact Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. after unexpectedly being detained during travel or a routine traffic stop.

Your Rights in the Extradition Process

Despite how intimidating extradition can seem, you do have important rights.

✔ Right to an Extradition Hearing
This hearing does not determine guilt or innocence. Instead, the court reviews:

• Whether you are the correct person named in the warrant.


• Whether the extradition request meets legal requirements.

Our attorneys frequently challenge extradition demands that lack proper documentation or contain identity errors.

✔ Right to Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney
Working with a skilled extradition lawyer from Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. can:

• Challenge the legality of the extradition.


• Contest identity or mistaken identity claims.


• Seek bond or reléase.


• Prevent procedural delays.


• Negotiate with prosecutors or foreign authorities.

An attorney is essential to ensuring due process—especially in international cases.

✔ Right to Challenge the Process
With the right legal strategy, you may challenge:

• Faulty or incomplete paperwork.


• Invalid or missing warrants.


• Wrong-person arrests.


• Human rights issues (international extradition).

At Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A., we have successfully defended clients from unnecessary surrender and unlawful detention.

The Consequences of Extradition

Extradition can result in:

• Being held without bond.


• Transport in custody across state or international borders.


• Long delays and extended jail time.


• Complications in your underlying case.


• Increased difficulty securing a favorable outcome.

Our goal is to keep clients out of custody and challenge improper or unlawful extradition attempts.

How Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. Can Help

With over 30 years of combined criminal defense experience, our Miami extradition lawyers provide:

• Comprehensive review of warrants and requests.


• Legal challenges to extradition documents.


• Motions to contest identity or procedure.


• Advice on whether to waive or fight extradition.


• Defense strategies for the underlying criminal case.


• Representation in both state and federal courts.

Extradition law is extremely technical—this is not something you should attempt to handle alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I fight extradition?
Yes. While limited, challenges can be made based on identity, defective paperwork, or procedural violations. Our attorneys evaluate every possible defense.

2. How long can I be held before extradition?
Typically up to 30 days, but delays are common. We work to prevent unnecessary detention.

3. Will I get bail while waiting?
It depends on the jurisdiction. Many deny bail. We fight aggressively for your release.

4. Can Florida extradite for a misdemeanor?
Yes, depending on the state and charge. It is more common for felonies.

5. Do I need a lawyer?
Absolutely. Extradition is complex. A mistake could lead to weeks or months of unnecessary jail time.

Facing Extradition? Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. Can Help.

Being the subject of an extradition request is stressful and frightening—but you don't have to face it alone.
At Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A., we provide strategic, aggressive, and experienced representation to protect your rights from the moment you are detained.

Call now for a confidential consultation. Let our Miami criminal defense attorneys help you fight extradition and protect your future.