International Law Enforcement Academies (ILEA) Criminal Law Practice Exam

Extradition serves the critical purpose of transferring individuals who are accused or convicted of crimes from one jurisdiction to another where legal charges are pending or where they have been sentenced but are located in a different country. This process is vital in international law enforcement as it allows for the enforcement of legal accountability across borders, ensuring that individuals cannot evade justice by simply fleeing to another country.

By facilitating the return of fugitives so they can face legal proceedings where the crime was committed or where the charges are most relevant, extradition helps maintain the integrity of the legal system and supports international cooperation in combatting crime. As a result, it functions as a crucial tool for governments to uphold justice and protect their citizens from individuals attempting to escape prosecution.

Other choices highlight aspects of legal processes that are not directly related to the core function of extradition or misinterpret its purpose. For example, extradition is not limited to prosecuting individuals only in their home countries or negotiating plea deals, nor does it primarily focus on ensuring fair trials based on local rules.