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Information Pack for British Prisoners in
Bahrain
Author British Embassy Bahrain
Date 27 February 2020
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Contents Who can help? .................................................................................................................. 3
About the Embassy ........................................................................................................... 3
Who are the Consular Representatives? ........................................................................... 3
FIRST STEPS ....................................................................................................................... 4
Arrival at police station ...................................................................................................... 5
Arrival at prison ................................................................................................................. 5
General prison conditions .................................................................................................. 5
How can I receive money? ................................................................................................ 6
Can I work or study in prison? ........................................................................................... 7
Can I receive medical and dental treatment? ..................................................................... 7
Food and Diet .................................................................................................................... 8
Mail/Parcels ....................................................................................................................... 8
Can I make telephone calls? ............................................................................................. 8
Leisure and entertainment ................................................................................................. 8
Drugs ................................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
How can I make a complaint about mistreatment? ............................................................ 8
THE BAHRAIN JUDICIAL SYSTEM .................................................................................. 9
Is the system the same as the UK? ................................................................................... 9
Prisoners Abroad ................................................................................................................ 12
Annexes .............................................................................................................................. 14
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Introduction Who can help?
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO):
The FCO is represented overseas by its Embassies and Consulates (High Commission in
Commonwealth Countries). Both employ consular officers, and one of their duties is to
provide help and advice to any British National who gets into difficulty in a foreign country.
About the Embassy
We are impartial; we are not here to judge you. We aim to make sure that you are treated
properly and fairly in accordance with local regulations, and that you are treated no less
favourably than other prisoners.
We can answer questions about your welfare and about prison regulations but you must ask
your lawyer or the court about legal matters. The attached list of lawyers is provided by the
British Embassy for your convenience, but neither Her Majesty’s Government, nor any
official of the Consulate, take any responsibility for the competence or probity of any
firm/advocate on the list or for the consequence of any legal action initiated or advice given.
We cannot get you out of prison, pay fines or stand bail or interfere with local judicial
procedures to get you out of prison nor secure you an earlier trial date; we cannot
investigate a crime.
We have tried to make sure that the information in this booklet is accurate and up to date,
but the British Embassy cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions in the
information. If in doubt contact a lawyer.
Who are the Consular Representatives?
Wasmiya Ali, Vice Consul. E-mail: [email protected]
Claire Sanders, Pro Consul. E-mail: [email protected]
British Embassy, Bahrain
Government Avenue PO Box 114 Manama 306 Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: +973 17574100 (Option 2 for Consular) Fax: +973 1754101 Working Hours: 0730 – 1430 Bahrain time (0430 – 1030 GMT) Sunday - Thursday
Tel: +973 17574100
Fax: +973 17574101
Website: www.gov.uk/world/bahrain
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FIRST STEPS
Who will know that I have been detained?
If you are arrested or held in custody or in prison, the authorities should ask you whether you want them to contact the British Embassy. However, you can also ask for this to be done, and should do so particularly if you are charged with a serious offence. In certain areas of Bahrain, the Embassy will be informed within hours of your arrest, in others, delays of up to four days have been reported. We may be informed more quickly by friends or relatives. What will my family be told? For reasons of confidentiality we are not permitted to tell anyone that you have been detained or what the charges are without your permission. However, should you wish to inform your family we can make contact with them and give them advice on prison procedure, regulations and how you are doing. We can also pass on any messages from you. What will the Embassy do? We will aim to contact you as soon as possible after being told about your arrest or detention so that we can assess how we can help you, but this may depend on local procedures. We will then aim to provide assistance according your individual circumstances and local conditions. Our staff are there to support you and to take an interest in your welfare. We aim to be sensitive and non-judgemental. You should stay in touch with our staff and ask for their help, as they have experience in dealing with many of the problems you may face. Will I have a criminal record in the UK? You should be aware that if you have been convicted for certain serious offences, such as
sexual assault or drugs trafficking, we are obliged to inform the UK police. It is therefore
possible that information about this offence may appear if a Criminal Records Bureau check
were carried out by a prospective employer.
VISITS
How do my family and friends arrange a visit? Only relatives are normally allowed to visit, however in the case of a foreign national, if no relatives in Bahrain, then friends can visit. Family have to book visit through the prison by calling to make appointment on the first visit after the first visit the family would book appointments in advance through the visiting desk at the prison. There is no set rules as to how many people can visit at the same time. All visitors must bring photographic identification and will be searched prior to any visit taking place. They will not be allowed mobile phones and other electronic devices in on a visit.
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Consular staff will try and arrange clearance for visits by family members and friends coming from abroad, though the prison authorities may refuse non-relatives. You should advise your visitors to give as much notice as possible, and to supply their passport number and personal details such as place and date of birth, addresses. In prisons where foreigners are held, “open” visits may be allowed. This means that although guards will be present, you can sit either side of a table. But this tends to only happen when a member of the family has made an appointment and the visiting area is full. In most occasions you will be separated by a glass partition. You should always bear in mind that regulations can vary from prison to prison and can also be subject to change at short notice. How many visits am I allowed? A prisoner can have two visits per month, each lasting one hour. Consular Visits Consular staff will keep in regular contact with you, either by visiting personally or by telephone. The frequency of the visits will depend on the local prison conditions and your personal circumstances. What can visitors bring? Visitors can’t take any parcels containing food or clothing. A request has to be made before clothing will be accepted. The rules are very strict on what type of clothing will be accepted. Vistors can leave books, these will be checked by the officers before given to the prisoner. The prisoners buy on a periodical basis for clothing and other items if they wish. PRISON CONDITIONS/SERVICES Arrival at police station
Arrival at prison
Prisoners will be taken to the doctor and his body will be checked also tests will be taken
make sure the prisoner has no diseases, the prison officer will then make a report. The
officers will call the family and the Embassy to inform them what the case is against them.
The officers will then let the prisoner contact a lawyer.
General prison conditions
Conditions can vary significantly both between prisons and between different blocks in the same prison. Mosquitoes and cockroaches are common in cooler months. Sanitation is a tap and a hole-in-the-ground toilet inside each cell with one Western style toilet in the prisoner’s lounge. Daily hot showers are usually available. Prisoners sleep on bunk beds and, as a rule, there are 4 prisoners to one cell. It has been known that there are 6 people in one cell at busy times. There have been reports at times of more severe overcrowding; some prisoners have had to sleep on a mattress on the floor for a short period of time. Blankets and sheets are supplied. Bedding is changed by the prison officials once a month but prisoners are allowed to wash their own sheets whenever they wish. The prison cells are regularly sprayed against bug infestation. The temperature tends to be either very hot or very cold. You are allowed to wear your own clothes whilst in the prison cell but prisoners
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must wear prison uniform when out of their cells. Prisoners are allowed 2 sets of personal clothing which can be hand washed by themselves or they can pay another prisoner to wash them. It is important to have both light and warm clothing. There is a shop within all prisons where prisoners can buy clothes, toiletries and food. Islam influences all aspects of Bahraini life. Islamic ritual and prayer are part of daily life in prisons in Bahrain. For Muslims in prison there is a communal prayer up to five times a day, and a make-shift mosque on Fridays. During Ramadan both prisoners and guards go all day without eating, drinking or smoking. Tempers can be short, so be careful not to get drawn into any disagreements. Prison life tends to be harsher for foreign women. Women who give birth in prison are transferred to a maternity ward for the birth, and may keep the child with them until it is four years of age. Whenever possible, they are allowed to live in a cell separate from other prisoners.
How can I receive money?
Each prisoner is allowed to have up to 100BD in his prison account. Money can be left in by
visitors, or leftin by someone not visiting but asked to do so through a request made by the
prisoner in advance. Money can not be paid into a prisoners account from an external
source. Within certain limits, we can send you money from your family. In some cases there
may be a charge for this service.
OPTIONS TO TRANSFER FUNDS TO BRITISH NATIONALS OVERSEAS VIA THE FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE
Please note that we can only advance funds to the person overseas once your payment has cleared in our account. 1. Electronic Bank transfers
Payment by electronic/internet bank transfer can be made either using online or telephone banking, or at your local bank or building society. For all bank transfers, you will need to include the following details:
Bank: National Westminster Bank Account Name: FCO Multi Vote Sort Code: 60-70-80 Account Number: 10012362 Reference: FCO case reference number, surname and first name of
the person you are sending the funds for, plus country name if possible,
e.g. 11-THB-123456 SMITH JOE - THAILAND or CON-1234 SMITH JOE – THAILAND
IBAN GB56NWBK60708010012362 SWIFT/BIC NWBKGB2L You may also need our bank address which is: National Westminster Bank, Government Banking, CST PO Box 2027, Parkland, De Havilland Way, Howich, Bolton, BL6 4YU
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2. By Post Payments by Postal Order, Bankers Draft, Building Society Cheque or personal cheque should be crossed and made payable to “The Foreign and Commonwealth Office”. They should be sent to:
Accounts Receivable Foreign and Commonwealth Office Corporate Service Centre PO Box 6108 Milton Keynes MK10 1PX
We recommend that you use Special Delivery.
Please ensure that you include a note briefly explaining who the money is for, why you are sending these funds and quoting the FCO case reference number. You may wish to use the payment slip on the next page.
If you would like a receipt, please include a stamped addressed envelope.
Please note that it can take approximately 15 days for personal cheques to clear and for payment to be received. Please write the cheque guarantee number and expiry date, and the FCO case reference number, on the back of the cheque.
We are unable to receive payment by credit or debit card, or by cash. To: Foreign and Commonwealth Office FCO case reference number: Date: Please find enclosed funds for: Full Name: Country/place the above is in: Amount enclosed: Fee to be deducted: Payment method: My name is: My address is:
Can I work or study in prison?
Through Prisoners Abroad, there is the possibility of funding for educational courses. If you are interested, you should write for further information.
Can I receive medical and dental treatment?
Standards of healthcare are generally good. If a prisoner is required to be seen by a doctor/dentist an appointment will be made for them to attend the hospital. A doctor from Salmaniya hospital will make visits to the prison when requested by the authorities. You should report any health problems to the Embassy so that we can follow up with the prison authorities to ensure that the appropriate treatment is provided. Depression troubles some prisoners. Feelings of isolation are normal, especially if you don’t speak Arabic. The lack of mental stimulation, and facing up to a long sentence can also
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affect your mental state. When you have a consular visit it is up to you to explain exactly how you are feeling. The range of free medicines available varies from prison to prison. The prison doctor can
prescribe certain medicines at the prison. Prisoners Abroad (PA) has a medical fund for
prisoners with no money at all. It can help with paying for essential medical or dental
treatment. PA also runs a vitamin programme which enables the Embassy to bulk-buy
multivitamins for supply to British nationals.
Food and Diet
Prisoners are fed 3 well balanced meals a day and a typical prison lunch is chicken, rice and vegetables. On request, the prison is able to cater for special dietary requirements.
Mail/Parcels
Prisoners can receive and send mail directly. There are no restrictions on the amount, but there are rules on what you can and can’t receive. All letters are censored and post sometimes doesn’t get through - both letters and parcels can go astray. The Bahraini postal system is not reliable. Ensure that anyone sending you mail or parcels puts your full name and prison number on the outside and to number letters in sequence. You can have clothing sent to you but not tobacco. Magazines, books and newspapers are generally permitted, although they will be scrutinised at and may be censored. Pornographic material is strictly forbidden.
Can I make telephone calls?
Prisoners can have two telephone calls per week, each lasting up to 15mins but the rules
are subject to change. The system is operated by telephone cards purchased by the
prisoners. If the prisoner has no money then they should make a reqest to use the
telephone to arrange money to be left. In special circumstances, a prisoner can request
additional phone time and this will be considered.
It is best to give family and friends a range of dates and times when you will try to ring. Hundreds of prisoners often all want to make calls at the same time, so be prepared for a long wait and the likelihood of disappointment.
Leisure and entertainment
Prisoners can play sport in their exercise areas, including football, volleyball and basketball. In reality, this probably depends on a number of factors including what other prisoners feel like doing. They can also play chess and cards and other games. Depending on the block that the prisoners are held in, they will receive fence time of 2 hours or more every day. There is a workshop where prisoners can make wooden handicrafts.
How can I make a complaint about mistreatment?
If you experience harassment, threats or violence you should report it to the Consular staff as soon as possible. Consular staff can raise any allegations of mistreatment with the prison authorities if you would like them to do so. Previous experience is that just the suggestion
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that you will be reporting to the Embassy can make a positive difference to how you are treated.
THE BAHRAIN JUDICIAL SYSTEM
Is the system the same as the UK?
No. Islam is the state religion and Bahrain has a dual legal system: secular, partly inherited from the French/Egyptian inquisitorial system1 and Islamic law, which settles family and inheritance matters for Bahraini Muslims. Personal matters relating to foreigners are settled by Bahrain Civil Courts, in accordance with the law of the marriage. Most offences for which non-Muslims from outside Bahrain are accused are dealt with under the secular penal code. The onus of proof of guilt always lies with the Prosecution. Although Bahrain is a signatory to the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, allegations of mistreatment and torture against Bahrainis in places of detention continue. New legislation and the creation of the Ministry of Interior Ombudsman’s Office, the National Institute of Human Rights and the Prisoners and Detainees’ Rights Commission mean there are three independent bodies the Embassy can contact, if you feel you have been treated incorrectly at any time during your detention. The Criminal Procedure Code introduced habeas corpus (the presumption of innocence) and states that confessions “obtained under duress” (made under pressure or by use of force or threats) are not acceptable as evidence. Despite allegations in individual cases, there is no evidence of widespread judicial corruption. Remember that you should never sign anything you cannot read. If you find yourself under pressure to sign, ask to speak to the British Embassy. What should happen when I am arrested? You have the right to see a lawyer and should be informed of this right, but it does not always happen. Bahraini law requires that you be charged by the Prosecutor General and you may be asked to confess in front of a judge within 24 hours of being detained. This can be extended to 48 hours on approval by the Prosecutor, and up to a maximum of 12 days in cases of national security and 60 days for terrorism related charges. You will normally be taken from the police station to court where the Prosecutor will read the charges. The Examining Magistrate may provisionally remand you into custody. He will take police reports into account and a signed statement will also influence whether you are remanded. Generally arrest leads to detention in police cells. You should be charged within 24 hours, but allegations of being held without charge for a few days persist. You are entitled to legal trial and to contact a lawyer whilst you are in police custody. The standard practice is for passports to be kept by the Clerk of the Court until your release. How long can I be remanded in custody?
1 “Inquisitorial” means the use of intensive questioning, as the system has tended to rely heavily on confessions. Along with police reports, they make up the bulk of evidence in most cases.
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In Bahraini law, the period of remand should not exceed 60 days. In practice, it can be just a few days and it may be extended up to five times. You have the right to challenge each extension. Any time served on remand will count as part of your sentence. Certain restrictions can be imposed on prisoners on remand, such as no contact with family or other detainees. You will be able to wear your own clothes and will not be expected to work. Prisoners on remand are not segregated from prisoners serving sentences. What happens when I am charged? At hearing before the Prosecutor General or a tribunal (court) you should be notified of your rights. In theory these are:
The right to an interpreter;
The right to consult a lawyer;
The right to appeal against the charge(s);
The right to be examined by a doctor, if unwell.
The right to be visited - at a reasonable time - by British Consular staff, and by members of your immediate family;
Due to the domestic unrest and associated arrests, the justice system in Bahrain is not always swift. It is likely that a few days after the first hearing you will be taken to the Court of the First Instance. If you have appointed a lawyer, he can ask for an adjournment to prepare your case. If you do not have a lawyer your case will be heard almost immediately. If you are found guilty of the charges against you, regardless of whether or not you have a lawyer, your case will automatically go to the Court of Appeal. You can then expect to wait at least another seven more days before your second court hearing. At the second court hearing you will be given the chance to defend the charges against you before the Judge, or for your lawyer to speak on your behalf. You may once again find yourself put under pressure to confess, or to sign an official report, before having access to a lawyer. You should not sign any documents that you do not understand. What provisions ARE there for bail? Bail can only be granted with the agreement of the Public Prosecutor and the Examining Magistrate. Foreign nationals find generally find it almost impossible to get bail because their temporary status in the country poses a threat that they might abscond. What kind of legal assistance is available? Consular staff cannot give legal advice, but they will provide you with a list of English speaking lawyers. Prisoners Abroad can also supply information on legal aid, court proceedings and finding a lawyer. There are some non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Bahrain who have lawyers amongst their members, some of whom are prepared to work for free. However, they tend to focus on human rights issues. What happens at the trial?
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Your trial will be heard in Arabic and the court must appoint an interpreter. Using the French/Egyptian model means there is no jury system in Bahrain. Instead, trials are heard by a judge or up to three judges per sitting, per case. Evidence is largely, and sometimes solely, on police reports and there is no guarantee your plea(s) will be discussed.
SENTENCES
Minor Offences Misdemeanours carry the lowest penalties, which may include fines. There are three types of fines: the administrative (court) fine, the tobacco taxand customs fines. Court costs are usually small amounts and are paid at same time as the court fine. If your sentence includes a fine, it must be paid before you are eligible for release. Serious Offences Terrorism, firearms and drugs offences are the most serious in Bahrain and you will be punished harshly if convicted of related charges. Anyone caught with a gun receives a guaranteed twenty year sentence, while a drug conviction will generally carry a sentence of anywhere between six months and life imprisonment. For drugs cases the length of sentence usually depends of the type of drugs and the quantity involved, although there have been reports of sentences which contradict this. The death penalty is only given for terrorist offences or murder and is often commuted. Suspended sentences are not given to foreign nationals.
How can appeals be made? Appeals must be lodged within 30 days of conviction and sentencing. You may appeal against the actual conviction or against the length of sentence. The Prosecution can also appeal for an increased sentence. If you do decide to appeal, you should bear in mind the additional costs. If your appeal is rejected you may apply for to the Court of Cassation. The further appeal will not re-examine the case on the grounds of evidence or the conviction but on points of law. Cassation can be a long process and you may find your release date comes first. What provision is there for reduction of sentence (remission) e.g, for good behaviour? There is no system for granting remission (time off your sentence) for foreign nationals, except by a Royal Decree from the King. What provision is there for early release e.g, on parole? There is no parole for foreign nationals. What provision is there for clemency or pardon? Royal Pardons are granted by the King and pleas should be addressed to him. To be eligible you should have served at least one-third of your sentence. If you receive a Royal Pardon and your sentence included a fine, the Royal Pardon will not come into effect until the fine has been paid, unless the Pardon clearly states it includes the fine.
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Royal Pardons are traditionally granted on important Islamic or Bahraini anniversaries, including Ramadan (Aïd es-Fitr), Aïd El Adha, El Maoulid E Nabawi (The Prophet’s Birthday) and Bahraini National Day. Any request for a Royal Pardon should be sent 1-2 months before the date of the anniversary that you hope to benefit from. Consular Staff will discuss the Royal Pardon process in more detail with you if you are considering applying. What about any financial penalties? You should expect to pay all your fines before you are released from prison, unless you have been granted a Royal Pardon that also excuses the paying of your fine(s). You can also be released without paying the court fine if:
you have applied for cassation and reached your expected date of release before the date has been set for the cassation;
No arrest warrant has been issued against you by the court for non-payment of either fine, and imprisonment for non-payment has not been specified in your sentence.
Prisoners Abroad
Since 1978 the charity Prisoners Abroad has offered practical support and advice to British
citizens imprisoned overseas. It is the only UK charity providing this service and it is
available to all, whether guilty or innocent, convicted or on remand. Prisoners Abroad is
concerned with your health and welfare, both during your imprisonment and also on your
return to the UK, through their resettlement service (if you have registered whilst in prison).
They can also provide support and advice to your family during your imprisonment. In order
to access any services, prisoners must first register with Prisoners Abroad by signing and
returning their authorisation form.
Once you seek help from Prisoners Abroad, the Prisoner & Family Support Service will be
your point of contact for advice and information. The type of assistance they can offer will
vary from country to country, but generally they can provide you with information, in English,
on:
your rights as a prisoner and issues that may affect you such as health or transfer to
the UK
obtaining magazines, newspapers, books and the regular Prisoners Abroad
newsletter
writing to a pen pal
learning the language of your country of imprisonment
translation of documents
grants for food if you are in a developing country and don’t have funds from other
sources
grants for essential medicines and toiletries if you don’t have funds from other
sources
preparing for release
help for your loved ones, including information, family support groups and assistance
with the cost of visiting
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Prisoners Abroad
89 – 93 Fonthill Road
London N4 3JH
UK
Telephone: 00 44 (0)20 7561 6820 or, for your relatives in the UK, Freephone 0808 172
0098
(Mondays to Fridays 9.30 am to 4.30 pm, UK time)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.prisonersabroad.org.uk
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Annexes
Annex 1: List of English-Speaking Lawyers Annex 2: List of Private Translators/Interpreters Annex 3: FCO leaflet: In prison abroad Annex 4: FCO leaflet: Transfers home for prisoners abroad Annex 5: Prisoners Abroad authorisation form Annex 6: Prisoners Abroad family contact form Annex 7: Prisoners Abroad CFF form [delete if not applicable] Annex 8: Fair Trials International questionnaire and leaflets Annex 9: Reprieve information [where applicable]
Annex 1
List of lawyers in Bahrain
Prepared by British Embassy Bahrain
www.gov.uk
The following list of lawyers has been prepared by the British Embassy Bahrain for the
convenience of British Nationals who may require legal advice and assistance in Bahrain. It is
provided on the understanding that we (the British Embassy) do not assume or undertake any
legal responsibility, to you, or those affected, if you choose to take it into account when
instructing a local lawyer.
Further and alternatively, we cannot accept any liability to any person or company for any
financial loss or damage arising from the use of this information or from any failure to give
information.Our aim is to provide our customers with as much relevant information to enable them to
make better informed decisions but our lists are not recommendations and should not be treated
as such.
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List of lawyers in Bahrain Updated: April 2018 This list is in alphabetical order (following Honorary Legal Advisor’s details).
Zu’bi & Partners Attorneys
& Legal Consultants
Address:
GBCorp Tower, Floor 16, Building
1411, Road 4626, Block 346,
Bahrain Financial Harbour District,
PO Box 2397, Manama, Kingdom of
Bahrain
Tel:
00973 17 538 600
Fax:
00973 17 532 342
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.zubipartners.com
English Speaking Staff
Yes
Office Affiliated to:
No affiliations
Legal Specialties:
Banking and Finance
Bankruptcy
Liquidation & Restructuring
Business & Commercial Law
Corporate Law & Equity Finance
Corporate Secretarial
Employment & Labour Law
Family Law
Islamic Finance
Maritime Law & Shipping
Trusts and Real Estate
Able to witness signatures, certify copy documents and passports
Notary services.
Experience in representing
British Nationals:
Yes
Legal Aid:
No
Pro Bono Services:
Yes
Staff Speak:
Arabic, English, French, Hindi
Company Covers:
The Firm’s jurisdiction covers the
whole of the Kingdom of Bahrain
International Offices:
Dubai, UAE
Alajooz & Associates
Address:
English Speaking Staff:
Yes
Office Affiliated to:
The firm is licensed by the Ministry
of Justice & Islamic Affairs in
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Office 71, Building 743, Road 3616,
Seef District 436, Kingdom of
Bahrain,
P.O. Box 17153, Bahrain
Tel:
00973 17441834
Fax:
00973 17441832
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.alajoozbh.com
Bahrain which observes the practice
of all law firms in the country.
Legal Specialities:
Litigation and Arbitration in Civil and Commercial Laws
Company Formations
Drafting and Reviewing Contracts
Debt Collection
Employment Law
Banking and Finance Law
Criminal Law
Authorised to witness signatures and certify copy documents and passports.
The firm also provides Private Notary services.
Experience in representing
British Nationals:
Yes
Legal Aid:
Can’t provide
Pro Bono Services:
Can’t provide
Staff Speak:
English, Arabic and Indian
Company Covers:
The Firm’s jurisdiction covers the
whole of the Kingdom of Bahrain
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Al Haddad Law Firm
Address :
Office Al Haddad Plaza, Office 53, Building
308, Road 1910, Block 319, Hoora, Kingdom of
Bahrain.
Tel: 00973 37376969
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.alhaddadlaw.com
English Speaking Staff:
Yes
Office Affiliated to:
No affiliations
Legal Specialties:
Arbitration
Banking
Commercial Law & Corporate Law
Company Formation
Cyber Law
Entertainment Law
General Litigation
Insurance
Intellectual Property (Patents, Trademarks, Copyright)
Labour Law
Legal Translation
Mergers and Acquisition
Maritime Law
Telecommunication Law.
Experience in representing British
Nationals:
Yes, British Companies and Individuals
Legal Aid:
Can provide legal aid.
Pro Bono Services:
Can provide Pro Bono Services.
Staff speak :
Arabic, English, Spanish, Indian, (Russian,
Turkish and French upon request).
Company Covers:
Bahrain and provides legal services in other
GCC Countries via their associates.
International Offices:
No international offices but have
international associates that they
work with on a case by case basis
(represent international law firms in
Bahrain).
Almoayed Chambers
Consultancy Co. WLL
Address:
English Speaking Staff: Yes
Office Affiliated to:
Ministry of Industry and Commerce
(as Professional Body) and Ministry
18
7th Floor NBB Tower, Manama,
Kingdom of Bahrain
Tel:
00973 17100000
Fax:
00973 17910898
Email:
Website:
www.almoayedchambers.com
of Justice and Islamic Affairs and
Consultancy Firm
Legal Specialties:
Strategic Advisory Services & General Consultancy
Dispute Resolution/Arbitration
Corporate Solutions – company formations, amendments, restructuring, etc
Multi-generational Family Organizations
Collection Services
Certification of documents and passports (original/copies)
Sponsorship Services
Litigation
Public Relations
Experience in representing
British Nationals:
Yes
Legal Aid:
Yes
Pro Bono Services:
Can provide Pro Bono services on a
case by case basis
Staff Speak:
English and Arabic
Company Covers:
Bahrain and also assisting in
matters involving cross jurisdictions
International Offices:
No
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Amin Law Firm &
Arbitrators
English Speaking Staff:
Yes
Affiliated with:
Al Tamimi & Co
Address :
Bahrain Financial Harbour
West Tower
Building 1459
Block 346
13th Floor
Suite 1304
Office 13B
PO Box 60380
Manama
Bahrain
Tel: +973 1 710 8919
Fax:
+973 1 710 4776
Email: [email protected].
Website: www.tamimi.com
English Speaking Staff: Yes
Office Affiliated to:
All of our lawyers are qualified and regulated by
either the Solicitor Regulatory Authority in the
UK or in accordance with the Ministry of Justice
and Islamic Affairs. 5 members are qualified
lawyers in England and Wales.
Legal Specialties:
Arbitration & Mediation
Banking & Finance and Insurance
Capital Markets
Commercial Law & Competition Law
Construction & Infrastructure
Corporate Law, Corporate Services & Corporate Structuring
Criminal Law & Financial Crime
Employment & Incentives
Family Business & Private Wealth
Intellectual Property
Legislative Drafting
Litigation
Mergers & Acquisitions
Private Equity
Private Notary
Real Estate
Regulatory
Tax & Technology
Media & Telecommunicaton
Experience in representing British
Nationals: Yes
Legal Aid: No
Pro Bono Services:
In certain circumstances. A process needs to be
followed with Al Tamimi’s Pro Bono Committee
Staff speak : English & Arabic
Company Covers: Entire Kingdom of Bahrain
International Offices: Offices in all GCC
countries and Iraq, Jordan and Egypt
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Address;
Flat 43, Fourth Floor, Building 1098,
Road 3622, Seef 436, Kingdom of
Bahrain.
Tel:
00973 17 841 222
Fax:
00973 17 841 212
Email : [email protected]
Amin Business Consultancy
Abstract for legal translation Law
firms across the Middle East
Legal Specialties:
Commercial
Corporate
Funds
Banking & Finance
Housing Projects
Real Estate
Labour & Employment
Immigration
Contracts
Mergers
Restructuring
Marine Law
Litigation
Arbitration
able to witness signatures and certify copy documents and passports
Experience in representing
British Nationals:
Yes
Legal Aid:
No
Pro Bono:
Yes
Staff Speak:
Arabic & English
Company Covers:
Middle East
International Offices:
Associates across the Middle East
Charles Russell Speechlys LLP
Address:
24th Floor, Bahrain World Trade Centre,
Manama,
P.O.Box 31249,
Manama,
Kingdom of Bahrain
Tel: 00973 17133200
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.charlesrussellspeechlys.com
English Speaking Staff: Yes
Office affiliated with: No affiliations
Legal Specialties:
Real Estate and Construction
Corporate and Commercial
Litigation and Dispute Resolution
Banking & Islamic Banking
Family Law (UK)
able to witness signatures and certify
copy documents and passports
Experience in representing British
Nationals:
21
Yes
Legal Aid: No
Pro Bono Service: Assessed on case by case basis
Staff Speak: English and Arabic
Company Covers: International Offices: UK, France, Switzerland, Bahrain, Qatar, and
affiliates in Saudi Arabia
GCC, UK, and Europe.
International Offices: UK, France, Switzerland, Bahrain, Qatar, Dubai
& Hong Kong and affiliates in Saudi Arabia
Elham Ali Hassan & Associates
Lawyers & Legal Consultants
Partners:
Ms Elham Ali Hassan
Mr Essa Jawahery
Ms Sara Jawahery
Address:
12 Floor Al Rossais Tower, Diplomatic Area,
Manama, P.O. Box 2366, Kingdom of Bahrain
Tel: 00973 17533317
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.elhamlaw.com
English Speaking Staff: Yes
Office Affiliated with: No affiliations. Licensed by the Ministry of
Justice & Islamic Affairs.
Legal Specialties:
Corporate & Commercial
Banking
Labour Law
Civil Marriages/Divorce
Wills & Estate Planning
Criminal
Lease/Property Law
able to witness signatures and certify
copy documents and passports
Experience in representing British
Nationals: Company has been operating for over 25 years
with clients from all nationalities
Legal Aid:
22
Can’t Provide
Pro Bono Service: Can’t Provide
Staff Speak: English, Arabic and French
Company Covers: Bahrain
International Offices: No
23
Hassan Radhi & Associates
Address :
Building 361, Road 1705, Block 317
ERA Business Centre, 18th & 19th Floors,
Diplomatic Area
Bahrain
PO Box 5366
Tel: 00973 17535252
Fax: 00973 17533358
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.hassanradhi.com
English Speaking Staff
Yes
Office affiliated to:
No Affiliations
Legal Specialties:
Banking
Civil
Insurance
Mergers & Acqusitions
Intellectual Property
Corporate Finance
Corporate Law & Commercial Law
Labour Law
Contract Law
Construction Law
Telecommunication Law
Maritime Law
Bankruptcy & Insolvency
Company Formation
Domestic & International Arbitration
General Litigation
Experience in representing British
Nationals:
Yes
Legal Aid:
Yes
Pro Bono Services:
Yes
Staff speak :
English, Arabic, French
Company Covers:
Bahrain
International Offices:
Member of the Lex Mundi Global
Network Independent Law Firms.
Forthcoming office in Oman
Nabeel Saeed Law Firm
Address : PO Box 28884,
Manama,
Bahrain
Tel: 00973 17 530037
English Speaking Staff
Yes
Office affiliated to:
Registered with the Ministry of Justice and
Islamic Affairs as licensed Lawyers to appear in
24
Fax: 00973 17 530037
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.nabeelsaeed.com
front of the Judicial Courts, Administrative
Courts, the Constitutional Courts and the Court
of Cassation.
Legal Specialties:
Conventional & Islamic Banking
Islamic Law
General Litigation
Corporate Law
Commercial Law
Civil Law
Arbitration & Dispute Resolution
Employment
Insurance
Criminal Law
Organised Crime
Medical Negligence
Family Law
Certified Translators
Experience in representing British
Nationals:
Yes
Legal Aid:
No
Pro Bono Services:
No
Staff speak :
Arabic, English & Farsi
Company Covers: The whole of Bahrain
International Offices:
Forthcoming office in Saudi Arabia
Norton Rose Fulbright (Middle
East) LLP
Address:
Bahrain Financial Harbour, P.O.Box 20437,
48th Floor, West Tower, Manama, Kingdom of
Bahrain.
Tel:
00973 16 500 200
Fax:
0093 16500 299
English Speaking Staff: Yes
Office Affiliated to: Licensed to practice by the Ministry of Justice
and Islamic Affairs
Legal Specialties:
Financial Institutions
Energy
Infrastructure
Mining & Commodities
Transport
Technology & Innovation
25
Website:
www.nortonrosefullbright.com
Real Estate
Dispute Resolution
Construction
Projects
Corporate
Banking
Life Sciences and Healthcare
unable to certify passports
Experience of Representing British
Nationals: Yes
Legal Aid: No
Pro Bono: Yes in certain limited circumstances
Staff Speak: Arabic & English
Company Covers: Global, but Norton Rose Fulbright (Middle
East) LLP focuses on the Middle East Region
International Offices: 50 Cities Across Europe, United States, Canada,
Latin America, Asia, Australia, Africa and the
Middle East
26
Trowers & Hamlins
Address:
7th Floor, West Tower,
Bahrain World Trade Centre,
PO Box 3012,
Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain,
Tel:
00973 17515600
Email: [email protected]
www.trowers.com
English Speaking Staff:
Yes
Office Affiliated To:
Office not affiliated to any local
authority.
Legal Specialities:
Corporate
Banking & Finance
Real Estate
Construction
able to witness signatures and certify copy documents and passports
Experience in representing
British Nationals:
Yes
Legal Aid:
Can’t provide
Pro Bono Services:
Can’t provide
Staff Speak:
English and Arabic
Company Covers:
International
International Offices:
UK, Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Oman
ENGLISH SPEAKING LAWYERS IN Bahrain
FEEDBACK
If you decide to use any of the lawyers on the list you acquired from this Embassy, we would be
grateful if you could take time to share your views on them with us. Please note that there is no
obligation on your part, but any feedback you give us would be most helpful. All information will be
27
treated in the strictest confidence. Once completed, please return the form to us by email
[email protected]. Thank you for your co-operation.
Lawyers Name …………………………………………………………………
Name of Firm …………………………………………………………………..
Date of Contact …………………………………………………………………
Overall Quality of Service
Excellent Good Average Poor Very Poor
Standard of Spoken English
Excellent Good Average Poor Very Poor
Quality of Advice Excellent Good Average Poor Very Poor
Value for Money Excellent Good Average Poor Very Poor
(Please tick appropriate box)
If any of the details on the list were incorrect (e.g. address, telephone number etc…) please indicate
what the correct details should be
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………...
Any further comments
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………..
Name …………………………………………………………………….. Telephone Number
……………………………….
Signed …………………………………………… . Date ………………………………………
28
Annex 2:
List of translators and interpreters in
Bahrain
Prepared by British Embassy Bahrain
www.gov.uk
29
The following list of translators and interpreters has been prepared by the British Embassy Bahrain for
the convenience of British Nationals who may require these services and assistance in Bahrain. It is
provided on the understanding that we the British Embassy do not assume or undertake any legal
responsibility, to you, or those affected, if you choose to take it into account when instructing a local
translator or interpreter.
Further and alternatively, we cannot accept any liability to any person or company for any financial loss
or damage arising from the use of this information or from any failure to give information
Our aim is to provide our customers with as much relevant information to enable them to make better
informed decisions, but our lists are not recommendations and should not be treated as such.
List of translators and interpreters in Bahrain
Updated: 13th May 2018
1. Eastern Express Translations
Mustafa Anees Mustafa - Manager P.O.Box 11322 Tel: 00973 17211994 Tel: 00973 39991176 Tel: 00973 33257398 Email: [email protected] This company has told us the following things:
Affiiliated to: The company is not affiliated to any regulatory body, although they deal with a number of government agencies and ministries. The company are an accredited translation office with the Notary Public, and the manager has been providing services since 1980 in Bahrain and other countries.
have/do not have experience of representing British nationals: The Company has experience in representing British Nationals in the courts and other arbitration panels.
staff speak: Arabic and English
they cover : Kingdom of Bahrain
2. Al-Mahmood Translations & Publishing Mahmood Al-Mahmood Director
30
P.O.Box 50060 Tel: 00973 17296060 Fax: 00973 17293133 Email – [email protected] This company has told us the following things:
They are associated with major international companies such as Bahrain Petroleum Company (BAPCO), Saudi Aramco, Chevron, among others.
They are entrusted by various government organizations, petroleum companies, commercial and Islamic banks, courier service providers, insurance groups, publishing houses, etc.
They provide translation to and from Arabic, English, French and German in co-operation with associates.
3. Al Qaed Translations & Services (Translations & Real Estate) P.O.Box 2687 Manama Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 00973 17292202 Fax: 00973 17305383 Email – [email protected] This company has told us the following things:
They provide services to all regions within the Kingdom of Bahrain and also GCC countries.
Staff speak: Arabic and English. However, they provide translations services in a variety of languages including English, Arabic, French, Russian.Chinese, Persian and many more.
They do have experience in representing British citizens.
31
Feedback Form for Customers
If you do decide to use any of the translators and interpreters on this list, we would like to hear from you. While there is no obligation on your part to provide feedback on the services you receive, any feedback you can give us is helpful.
Once completed, please return the form to the British Embassy by post to 21 Government Avenue PO Box 114 or by email to [email protected]. Thank you for your help. 1. Name of firm: Name of translator/interpreter:
2. Date of contact:
3. Are any of the details on our list regarding this provider wrong? (e.g. address, telephone number, etc.)
4. What service did you need?
They offer written and instant translation services. They have taken part in major conferences in Bahrain and provided interpreters and translation systems. They are also authorised by the Ministry of Justice to provide translation services. In this context, they can sign the translated documents before the Notary Public. They are also a member of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce.
They work with ministries and government agencies including Ministry of Information, Shura Council, House of Representatives, Ministry of Commerce, GOSI etc.
The owner of the office is a well-known writer, poet, translator and novelist in Bahrain and throughout the Arab World. He writes in both Arabic and English languages.
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5. Why did you need this service?
Please circle the appropriate boxes below:
(a) If the service provided English speaking services, how would you rate the standard of English? Excellent Good Average Poor Very Poor (b) How would you rate the professionalism of the staff? Excellent
Good
Average
Poor
Very Poor
(c) How would you rate the overall service received? Excellent
Good
Average
Poor
Very Poor
(d) How would you rate the value for money? Excellent
Good
Average
Poor
Very Poor
6. Do you have any other comments?
We would like to share this information with other customers, but if you would prefer it not to be seen by others please tick the box □
Annex 3: FCO Leaflet: In Prison Abroad https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/35521/in-prison-abroad.pdf Annex 4: FCO Leaflet: Transfers home for prisoners abroad https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/292519/FCO_Transfers_Home_0314web.pdf
Feedback provider’s name: Tel. No.:
Email: Date:
33
Annex 5: Prisoners Abroad authorisation form
34
