What happens if I am arrested at a UK airport on a French extradition warrant?

You will be taken into custody and brought before Westminster Magistrates’ Court, typically within 24 to 48 hours. At this initial hearing, the court will confirm your identity, explain the French allegations, and set a date for the full extradition hearing — usually within 21 days if you are remanded in custody. Bail applications can be made immediately, though French extradition cases often face Crown Prosecution Service opposition citing flight risk. You are entitled to legal representation from the moment of arrest, and early engagement with defence lawyers significantly improves prospects for securing conditional bail.