Fiona is a highly regarded expert in extradition law and has been involved in a number of major cases throughout her career.
Fiona has successfully defeated extradition requests from the USA, Republic of South Korea, Kuwait, and Turkey as well as most European and EU member states. The offences contained in these requests have ranged from large scale Ponzi scheme frauds and business crime to drug trafficking and murder. Fiona is adept at dealing with complex issues such as human rights and prison conditions; dual criminality; people trafficking; torture; PTSD and forum. Her clients range from vulnerable sole carers to high profile individuals and cases that deal with politically motivated requests.
Fiona has also provided strategic import advice and representation to individuals facing extradition to the UK from jurisdictions across the world involving complex issues such as specialty.
In addition to her extradition work, Fiona’s practice also encompasses criminal investigations, both in the UK and international jurisdictions. She advises clients at police station interviews and represents them in the Magistrates' Court and at sentencing hearings, and she is known for her discretion, sensitivity and tactical skill.
Before joining Kingsley Napley in 2024, Fiona worked within the Magistrates’ Court team and Extradition Unit at the Crown Prosecution Service and then at a leading private practice criminal defence firm. Since 2021, Fiona has been a committee member of the Defence Extradition Lawyers’ Forum (DELF).
Fiona has been described by both clients and the leading legal directories as “incredibly smart, dedicated and relentless”. She is also listed as a key lawyer in Legal 500.
Notable extradition CASES
- Successfully defended the first ever extradition request received by the UK from South Korea in connection to the largest stock price manipulation in South Korea’s history. (2022) Read more here
- Successfully defended one of the first few extradition requests received by the UK from Kuwait. (2023)
- Successfully defended a US extradition request for a defendant involved in one of the largest global ponzi schemes alleged to be worth $4 billion worldwide. Read more here
- Successfully defeated Greek extradition request. (2023)
- Acted for client facing extradition to Poland to stand to stand trial in respect of one offence of murder and one offence of assault. (2024) Read more here
- Acted for client facing extradition to US to stand trial for offences of wire fraud and money laundering valued at least $99million. (2024) Read more here
- Successfully defeated extradition request from Turkey for client wanted in respect of an offence of ‘qualified sexual abuse of a child’. (2023)
- Successfully defeated request for extradition from Bulgaria for client wanted on an accusation warrant in respect of a particularly serious allegation of murder which took place in 1999. (2021)
- Advised MM on his import matter following his arrest in Dubai, United Arab Emirates on an extradition request from the UK to stand trial in respect of an offence of conspiracy to import cocaine between 31 March and 29 October 2013. (2022) Read more here
NOTABLE Criminal CASES
- Secured acquittal of high profile Grime artist accused of one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, one count of unlawful wounding and one count of affray. Read more here
- Secured suspended sentence following conviction for fraud by false representations.
- Secured community penalty and reduced 6 month driving ban to run concurrently for one offence of driving whilst disqualified and without insurance.
- Successfully secured acquittal of client charged with possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.
- Basis of plea accepted by prosecution for possession of a prohibited weapon (stun gun) and successful argument of exceptional. circumstances for not imposing the mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment through meticulous preparation.
- Successfully secured acquittal of youth client charged with s18 GBH and possession of an offensive weapon wherein the complainant had sustained a stab wound.
- Successfully secured acquittal of vulnerable youth client in respect of driving related offences.
- Account Freezing Order and Account Forfeiture Applications in HMRC lead investigation reduced from £700k and no further action taken with respect to criminal prosecution.
- Confiscation following conviction of one count of fraudulent trading and two counts under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (creating a false impression and carrying out a regulated activity without authorization. The alleged benefit figure was £5.4 million. Successfully reduced the available amount of £296,000 which comprised of tainted gifts to under £30k.
What the clients and Directories say
From the bottom of our hearts, we want to thank you for everything you’ve done since our very first call. We will always remember the incredible effort you’ve put into getting his case to where it is today. It’s been a tough, stressful journey, but through it all, we’ve felt so lucky to have someone as understanding, dedicated, professional, and determined as you dealing with it all. Words cannot fully capture how truly grateful we are for your unwavering commitment. You are a force to be reckoned with!"
A client
She is incredibly smart, dedicated, relentless and always made us feel comfortable and cared for even during her days off. Fiona was very strategic in putting such a stellar team of counsel and experts for our case.”
A client
I am writing to you, to express something that simple words in an email can scarcely convey – our profound and heartfelt gratitude for everything you have done for us. Your unwavering support, expertise, and compassion have been more than just professional guidance; they have been a source of strength and comfort in one of the most challenging periods of our lives. Thank you, once again, for being our pillars of strength.”
A client
Chambers UK, 2024
She is sensitive to the needs of clients and is prepared to go the extra mile”
Fiona is really committed and really gives her all. She managed an almost unmanageable case load”
She’s very knowledgeable about the law and very collaborative”
Legal 500 2024
Associate Fiona Haddadeen is described as ‘excellent’ and as an ‘emerging name’ in extradition cases"
Fiona Haddadeen is an emerging name in extradition law’ trusted to handle difficult cases, and able to deliver results”
Stand out individuals are Katy Smart and Fiona Haddadeen, for their excellent work and deep knowledge in the field of extradition"
Katy Smart and Fiona Haddadeen stand out. They cover every angle, have a strong grasp of this complex area of law and how political changes in the world impact on extradition"
Chambers 2023
Fiona picks things up quickly and instinctively knows the next steps to take in a case"
She is exceptionally responsive and goes out of her way for her clients”
She has a very practical way with clients and for getting stuff done”
Legal 500 2023 - listed a 'Key Lawyer'
Professional societies & memberships
