FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

By clicking on the questions below, you can access straightforward practical answers to the questions we are most frequently asked by people arrested abroad and by their friends and relatives at home.

This is not a substitute for legal advice and, because every case is different and legal systems around the world vary so much, we cannot guarantee that the answers will be applicable to your own case. For advice about your own situation, you should talk to a lawyer qualified in the jurisdiction where you are being prosecuted.

The information contained in this document is provided for information purposes only and is not intended as legal advice, nor does it constitute legal advice. Whilst we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, Fair Trials International makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or applicability to individual cases of the information contained in this leaflet. Any reliance you place on such material is therefore strictly at your own risk. Fair Trials International disclaims any liability to the fullest extent permissible by law for any loss or damage of any kind arising from the use of the information provided.
 

Do's & don'ts after arrest

• I have been arrested abroad. What should I do?
• What information should I share with the police?
• I have been asked to sign documents in a language I do not understand – should I sign?
• How will I know what I am accused of?
• What information should I seek from arresting officers if I have not seen a lawyer?
• A representative from my consulate is coming to visit me. What should I do?
• What should I do if I have been tortured or mistreated by the police?
• I have health issues or need medical assistance. What should I do?
• What should I do next?

Getting support for your case

• What kind of support can I get?
• How can my consulate or embassy help?
• How can political representatives help?
• Who is my political representative and how do I contact them?
• How can I get help from my political representative?
• What kind of help can my local community give?
• Should I seek media coverage for my case?
• The press are asking questions. What should I do?

How to instruct a lawyer and prepare a defence

• Do I need a lawyer?
• How do I find and instruct a lawyer?
• What really matters when instructing a lawyer?
• I’m not happy with my lawyer: What should I do?
• Why do I need a local lawyer if I have a lawyer in my home country?
• Can one lawyer represent me and other people arrested with me?
• How will my lawyer be paid?
• What if I cannot afford to pay legal fees? What is legal aid and when is it available?
• How do I get the best from my lawyer?
• It is difficult to understand my lawyer: What should I do?
• Where should I keep documents relating to my case?
• What should I agree with my lawyer when we first meet?
• What should I ask my lawyer?
• How can I help my lawyer to prepare my defence?
• What evidence can I present to the court?

Fair Trials International gives no warranty and makes no representation regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information provided. Fair Trials International will not be held responsible for any loss or damage arising from the use of the information provided.