Mutual Legal Assistance

Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) is a mechanism by which a state requests cooperation from other states in the investigation and prosecution of crimes. MLA requests can include documentary or witness evidence, interrogation of individuals, enforcement of court orders or judgments, and asset freezes or confiscation orders.

Whether a party is targeted by an MLA as a witness, suspect, or otherwise involved, expert advice is crucial to understand the obligations and rights and to effectively interact with the issuing or executing authority.

MLA requests are inherently cross-border and often involve multiple jurisdictions and various state agencies, either competing or cooperating. The factual and legal complexities of such MLAs necessitate an understanding of both civil and criminal law across several jurisdictions.

Linkilaw’s professionals have extensive experience in cross-border criminal and financial investigations, including allegations of corruption, fraud, and financial sanctions. Our role can include advising on the legal and procedural aspects of an MLA, brokering agreements with relevant state agencies, or managing and resisting requests.