Guidance

Information for British nationals detained or imprisoned in Jordan

Updated 20 May 2024

This information is not meant to be definitive, and is not a substitute for independent legal advice. Neither His Majesty’s Government nor its staff take any responsibility for the accuracy of the information, nor accept liability for any loss, costs, damage, or expense that you might suffer as a result of relying on the information. The information contained in this guide is general and factual. You should contact local lawyers for independent legal advice.

Chapter 1: Key Points

Overview

If you are a British national, and are arrested or detained in another country, consular staff will do what they can to help you, but they cannot interfere with the local justice system, get you out of jail, or pay for services such as a lawyer. Information about who we can help, including the circumstances in which we can assist dual nationals, is available at: Support for British nationals abroad.

This detention information pack is designed to give you, and your family and friends, information about the local system in Jordan and who can help. A printed copy is provided to those in prison or in custody. We welcome feedback to help us improve the information we can provide to others.

Contacting us

If you are arrested or detained in another country:

• the authorities should ask whether you want them to contact the British Consulate (and must do so if you want them to)
• even if they do not ask, you can make the request yourself, and should do so, particularly if you are charged with a serious offence or need any kind of assistance
• friends or family can also contact the local British Consulate or the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in London on +44 (0)20 7008 5000

In some countries, the authorities might notify the British Consulate even if you don’t want anyone to know that you have been arrested. This is because there may be an agreement in place with the British Government which requires a mandatory notification to be made.

Who we are

Consular staff work in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office in London, and in British Embassies, High Commissions and Consulates overseas.

The British Embassy in Jordan, Damascus Street, Abdoun. Tel: +962 (0) 6 590 9200 (24 hours) Email: cons.amman@fcdo.gov.uk

You can also contact us by phone 24/7 for help or advice from anywhere in the world by calling the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office on 020 7008 5000.

Who are the Consular Representatives?

Emmi Ilic, HM Consul

Tityana Stash, Vice Consul

Amani Nawahda, Pro Consul

What we can do

The FCDO can offer you impartial and non-judgemental help. Once notified of your arrest or detention, consular staff will aim to contact you as soon as possible so that we can assess how we can help you. We then aim to provide assistance according to your individual circumstances and local conditions: our priority is to provide assistance to those British nationals overseas that need our help the most.

In Jordan, notification by the authorities to the Consulate normally takes place within several days after arrest.

Once we are notified, we aim to contact you as soon as possible.

We can also:

• provide a list of local English-speaking lawyers and interpreters
• provide general information about the country, detention conditions, and the local legal system (including if legal aid is available)
• provide general information about the local prison or remand system, including visiting arrangements, mail and censorship, privileges, and welfare services
• keep in regular contact with you, either by visiting or by telephone/letter. The frequency of contact will depend on local conditions and your personal circumstances
• tell the police or prison doctor, with your permission, about any medical or dental problems including medication
• put you, or your family, in touch with a prisoners’ welfare charity called Prisoners Abroad. In some circumstances we may be able to help take up complaints with the police or prison authorities about ill treatment, personal safety, or discrimination, if you are not treated in line with internationally recognised standards
• help to transfer money to you from your friends or family. In places where phone or postal services aren’t available, we can also pass on messages and deliver letters to the prison (but generally we cannot arrange for delivery directly to you
• in some circumstances we may be able to help you apply for a transfer to a prison in the UK

What we can’t do

• get you out of prison or detention
• help you get special treatment
• offer legal advice, start legal proceedings or investigate a crime
• pay for any costs as a result of being arrested
• forward you packages sent by friends or family
• prevent authorities from deporting you after release

First steps

Can you / will you tell my family?

If you want us to, we can tell your family or friends that you have been detained and can provide them with information about how to contact you in prison or detention. With your consent, we can also keep them updated on your well-being.

If you are not sure about informing your family, we can help you consider the impact that not doing so might have. For example, it may cause them distress if they do not know where you are, or cannot contact you. It can also be a disadvantage to you if you need someone to send you money or act on your behalf while you are detained.

Will the UK Police be informed?

If you are accused of certain serious offences, such as sexual assault or drugs trafficking, we are obliged to share information about your arrest with UK police. It is therefore possible that information about this may appear if a Criminal Records Bureau check were carried out by a prospective employer. There may be other circumstances in which information about you may need to be shared by ourselves or authorities in Jordan.

Do I need a lawyer? / How can I find a lawyer?

Although we cannot give legal advice, start legal proceedings, or investigate a crime, we can offer basic information about the local legal system, including whether a legal aid scheme is available. We can give you a list of local interpreters and a list of local English-speaking lawyers is attached to this pack. You will want to consider the benefits of local legal representation and to discuss all the costs beforehand with the legal representative. In no circumstances can we pay your legal or interpretation costs.

Can you get me out?

We cannot get you out of prison or detention, nor can we get special treatment for you because you are British. However if you are not treated in line with internationally accepted standards we will consider whether to approach local authorities. This may include if your trial does not follow internationally recognised standards for fair trial or is unreasonably delayed compared to local cases.

Who else can help me?

We can put you, or your family, in touch with Prisoners Abroad, a UK charity which supports British citizens detained overseas and their families.

Chapter 2: Detention conditions in Jordan

Visits: friends and family

Can my family and friends visit me? How can I arrange a visit?

Once you are detained you have the right to have your family informed of your detention. Thereafter, you will be allowed to maintain contact with family and friends.

Family and friends arrange visits through the prison you are in. You will be allowed family visits unless the prison director directs otherwise. If necessary, consular staff could help.

The Jordanian system recognizes the importance of family and other contact with the outside world. The number of visits permissible will vary according to the individual facility in which you are held. Usually, you are allowed to be visited three times a week, Sunday, Tuesday and Friday by friends and family. In addition, private visits are given once a month to those who prove to have good conduct.

In some cases, because of the nature of the charges raised visiting privileges might be severely curtailed by the authorities.

What can visitors expect?

The place of the visit vary depending on the prison you’re being held at. Visitors will be searched upon arrival. The visit might be supervised and might not depending on the prison’s regulations.

What can visitors bring?

Items which can be brought are set out in the individual regulations of the Management of the Correctional and Rehabilitation Centre; these will usually include clothes and money.

Visits: consular staff

When you are detained, you should ask for your embassy to be informed of your detention. We aim to visit you as soon as we receive the permit, if you wish us to do so. Number of consular visits vary depending on your case. You will be notified of the visit by the prison.

You can contact to us at any time on matters of concern +962 (0) 6 590 9200 (24 hours) but if it is urgent it may be quicker to ask prison authorities to contact us on your behalf.

Emergency trips outside of prison

Trips outside of prison must be arranged for with the prison if an urgent situation arises (eg. funerals and critical illness of a prisoner’s next-of-kin). Some prisons might refuse to give permission and some might accept.

Police custody and initial arrival at prison

Arrival at the police station & basic rights

Upon arrest, you will be taken to the nearest police station. Police will give you the reasons for your arrest and shall inform you of any charges against you. If you do not speak or understand Arabic; the public prosecutor shall assign you a translator as a free service during the investigation period, and the rest of the trial. You have the right to contact a lawyer. You will be held with other individuals arrested in basic facilities. You may be taken to a hospital for a blood test, if you are suspected of being drunk or to have taken drugs. You may be questioned by police officers. Police can hold a detainee for up to 24 hours before being brought before the competent public prosecutor.

Police will not resort to the use of force except when necessary and only within what is considered enough to carry out their role of law enforcement after exhausting the usual means.

You can ask for your Embassy to be contacted and advised of your arrest, however it is not a right to do so. We often hear of an arrest of a person from a friend who was with them at the time of arrest.

You can ask for medical treatment if you are unwell or hurt.

You will be taken to court to see a Judge, normally on the day or day after your arrest. He will decide if you have a case to answer for, have the possibility of bail or will be detained or deported.

Appearance at court

You will be taken to court to see a Judge, normally on the day or day after your arrest. He will decide if you have a case to answer for, have the possibility of bail or will be detained or deported.

If you do not speak Arabic, the judge shall assign you a translator as a free service during the investigation period, and the rest of the trial.

More information about the Jordanian judicial system can be found in Chapter 3.

Initial arrival at the prison

On arrival at a prison, you will be searched. If you are female you will be searched by a female officer. You will also be examined by the prison doctor. On arrival you will also be classified according to your case. You will be medically checked by the centre’s physician. You will be allowed to make a telephone call to your family or to the Embassy or to your lawyer. You will then deliver your monetary and material deposits and will be provided with a blanket, jumpsuit, mattress and pillow.

Prison: conditions and daily life

Prison conditions are the responsibility of the Minister of the Interior. Conditions vary, with those in the older facilities being poorer whilst newer ones meet more international standards. Conditions in women’s prisons are generally better than in the men’s.

Where they occur, problems can include healthcare and sanitation, environmental (heat/cold and ventilation) and poor nutrition. Overcrowding can also be an issue, particularly in the prisons around Amman itself. Basic medical care is available in all facilities but this is usually limited. Contact your lawyer or the Embassy if you are in a problematic condition.

Accommodation

Prisoners are separated by sex. In addition, the law requires that those in detention are separated from those convicted. Juveniles are detained separately from the main prison population. Prison accommodation vary depending on the prison you being held at.

Food and diet

Food and water are provided but portions can be small and the quality varies.

Meals are provided by a specialized catering company. Each facility has a committee to ensure the standard of the food.

Hygiene

There is a limit on how many times a week you can shower/bathe depending on the prison regulation. Some Toiletries are provided by the prison. You can buy toiletries at the prison shop if available.

Work and study

You will be able to use any educational facilities that the prison has. These can be limited but may include a library and a computer hall.

You may be required by the prison director to undertake work. Women will only be given work suitable for women, such as embroidery or sewing. If you are unable to work you will be exempted, once you receive a confirmatory report from the prison’s doctor.

Contact and Languages

Contact with other inmates depends on the prison’s regulation.

Some prison dormitories are provided with TV sets. Some facilities have shops which sell newspapers.

There is no automatic right to make phone calls. If you wish to make a telephone call you must apply at the detention centre. Usually, you are allowed to make local telephone calls twice a week. To call internationally, you may be asked to buy telephone cards.

There is the possibility to request local language materials through the post from Prisoners Abroad (including language textbooks and dictionaries).

Exercise

Prisoners are permitted to go outdoors a certain number of hours a day which are specified by the prison. Some facilities have a gymnasium or other recreational activities like table tennis or chess. Some prisons provide regular exercise organised by the prison authorities.

Climate

Jordan’s climate ranges between a more Mediterranean climate to a desert climate.

Religion

Prisoners can practice their religion. Upon your request; police can provide religious items and arrange special visits from your clergy to help assist in practicing your religion. Detention facilities are not staffed by religious ministers.

Rules and regulations (including drugs)

Prison rules and regulations are explained to prisoners. Certain behaviours (e.g. insulting or abusing staff) considered more serious.

The law does not allow you to possess any kind of drugs. If caught with drugs you may face legal proceedings.

Prison: access to help and services

How can I receive money?

There are two ways in which you may be able to receive financial assistance while in prison.

• private funds: deposited to you by your family or friends. See page 11 instructions on how to send funds. You can receive money from your family and friends if they bring the amount to the centre. They will be given a receipt. In some cases, with prior approval you may be allowed to go, under escort, to a bank to withdraw money. That money will then be deposited into your personal account at the prison or detention centre
• Prisoners Abroad: depending on where you are detained, if your family can’t support you financially, Prisoners Abroad may be able to send you a small grant every quarter for essentials (enough for one hot meal a day)

The British Government does not provide financial assistance to prisoners.

Options to transfer funds to British Nationals Overseas via the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Please note: we can only advance funds to the person overseas, once your payment has cleared in our account.

Electronic bank transfers: contact your bank to arrange.

A “BACS” transfer usually takes 3 to 5 working days to clear in our account. Some banks do not charge for this service. If you have internet or telephone banking you may be able to arrange without visiting your bank.

A “CHAPS” transfer is usually received in our account within 12 to 24 hours. You will normally need to visit your bank to arrange and banks normally charge for this service.

For both the above bank transfers you will need to include the following details:

Bank	Citibank
Account name	GBS Re FCO Multivote Account
Sort Code	08-33-00
Account Number	12537125
Reference	Name of the person you are sending the funds for, plus country name. Eg JOE SMITH – THAILAND

You may also need our bank address which is:

Canary Wharf
London E14 5LB

By post

Payments by Postal Order, Bankers Draft or Building Society cheque should be crossed and make payable to “The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office”. They should be sent to:

Accounts Receivable
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
Corporate Service Centre
PO Box 6108
Milton Keynes
MK10 1PX

We recommend that you use Recorded or Special Delivery.

Please ensure that you include a note briefly explaining who the money is for and why. (Alternatively you may use the payment slip on next page.)

If you would like a receipt, please include a stamped addressed envelope.

Please note that personal cheques can take up to 15 working days to process and clear before we can advance funds. We do not accept Card payments, or cash sent in the post. If you wish to pay by cash, you can take the money to our offices at Northgate House, Milton Keynes but will need to telephone first to make an appointment.

To: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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:

Private funds

While the FCDO does not provide financial assistance to prisoners, we may be able, within certain limits, to send you money from your family.

The FCDO operates a “Prison Comfort” system for money transfers to prisoners. Please ask your family to get in touch with the FCDO in order to arrange this.

Prisoners Abroad

In addition, Prisoners Abroad, a UK charity, may be able to assist you with funding for prison essentials and some medical care if you are not in receipt of any regular donations from other sources.

Can I receive medical and dental treatment?

While you are in detention, Jordan is responsible for ensuring your basic medical needs are met. The Ministry of Health is responsible for the healthcare of prisoners. A medical centre is established in every rehabilitation centre delivering health and dental care, along with medical assistance free of charge. If your condition requires hospital treatment based on the doctor’s report; you will be transferred to one and shall return upon completing your treatment.

You can request to see a psychiatrist / psychologist depending on the prisons availability.

Glasses might be available to prisoners depending on the prison’s availability.

In case of emergency you need to inform the prison.

If you are pregnant; you have the right to be:

• shown to the centre’s doctor whenever deemed necessary, periodically and shall be treated appropriately based on the doctor’s directions
• transferred to government hospitals if not treated at the centre
• admitted to the hospital to give birth, based on the doctor’s recommendation
• provide the necessary aid after birth along with your child
• a special place “nursery” is allocated within the centre for infants and children during periods of which they are not in their mother’s care

With your permission, we can make sure that any medical or dental problems you might have are brought to the attention of any police or prison doctor. We can also liaise with your GP in the UK, if the police or prison doctor requests previous medical records and this is in your vital interests.

Mail/Parcels

Prisoners are allowed to receive parcels in some prisons, there might be a limit to the number of parcels/letters a prisoner may send or receive. In some prisons authorities may open/read or censor a prisoner’s mail. The local embassy/consulate does not accept parcels on behalf of prisoners.

You might need to pay for stamps.

Can I make telephone calls?

There is no automatic right to make phone calls. If you wish to make a telephone call you must apply at the detention centre. Usually, you are allowed to make local telephone calls twice a week. To call internationally, you may be asked to buy telephone cards.

How can I make a complaint about mistreatment?

If you have been mistreated, please inform Consular staff as soon as it is safe for you to do so. We will then do our best to visit you, to check on your welfare, discuss the allegations, and inform you of any local complaints procedures and supportive organisations that you may wish to consider. With your permission, and where appropriate, we will consider approaching the local authorities if you have not been treated in line with internationally-accepted standards. If you have been mistreated, please try to see a doctor, obtain a medical report and if possible photos of the injuries you received.

The constitution prohibits the use of torture, including psychological by public officials.

Claims of mistreatment can be made to the Ombudsman’s Bureau within Public Security Directorate. Complaints can also be made to Jordan’s National Council for Human Rights.

The Public Security Department (PSD) is responsible for investigating allegations of mistreatment. Complains against police treatment is conducted as follows:

• every arrested person/ detainee has the right to submit at any time written or verbal complaint to the police officer on duty
• the police officer must report such complain directly to the competent public prosecutor
• a copy of the complaint shall be preserved in the police record
• the lawyer of the arrested person/ detainee has the right to access such record and review the complaint

Anyone who has been the victim of unlawful arrest or detention shall have an enforceable right to compensation.

Chapter 3: the Jordanian judicial system

Overview and first steps

Is the system the same as the UK?

In short, the way any case is dealt with depends on the seriousness of the alleged offence. There are three main types of court: civil, military and religious. Religious courts have jurisdiction over matters such as marriage, divorce, child custody and inheritance.

Jordan categorises two types of offences – major and minor. Minor offences are dealt with in the local Magistrate’s Court (Qasr Al-Adel) and more serious offences in the criminal Court of First Instance, the Major Felonies Court or the Military or National Security Court.

The Jordanian justice system is ‘inquisitorial’ rather than jury based. This means that the Judges are responsible for carrying out a wide-ranging enquiry in order to get the ‘file’ of information about the case. The judge will base his final decision on this file.

A trial is the final act of investigation. The Judge is in control and will ask most of the questions. There will be no jury.

The rules of evidence are also different than in the UK. The court can consider all evidence, including hearsay.

You have the right to challenge the decision directly or through your lawyer (depending on the charges against you).

If the individual lacks legal representation in the crimes which penalty is either death penalty or life time Imprisonment/ Labour sentence or not less than (10) years of Imprisonment/ Labour sentence; the court shall appoint a legal representative for the defendant.

The detainee has the right to:

• raise any issues related to his detention to the court
• such issue must be taken into consideration by the court
• detainee (or his/ her lawyer) can submit a claim to the public prosecutor to investigate the issue

The FCDO cannot interfere with the judicial system. We cannot ask for your case to be judged more quickly just because you are British, or ask the authorities to waive any penalties.

What should happen when I am arrested?

Police will give you the reasons for your arrest and shall inform you of any charges against you.

Detained person has the right to:

• contact a lawyer, if detainee refuses to appoint a lawyer or the later does not attend in (24) hours; the investigation by the public prosecutor is conducted without one
• only answer in the presence of a lawyer, unless in the event of urgency or whenever the public prosecutor deems it necessary in accordance to what is established by law
• tell someone where they are by phone, letters or telegrams and at his/ her expense
• may be able to have visitors, but this may be refused by custody officer
• obtain medical assistance if unwell, injured or upon request
• review any of his/ her legal papers such as indictments, charge sheets and any verdicts against him/ her

If a foreign national:

• detainee may contact his country’s diplomatic counsellor/ representative/ embassy in order to inform them of the arrest situation and its reasons
• embassy/ consulate officials can arrange to visit their nationals in police custody

No discrimination against foreign detainee will be applied in regards to aforementioned rights.

If detainee does not speak or understand Arabic the public prosecutor/ judge shall assign him/her a translator as a free service during the investigation period, and the rest of the trial.

There is a general right of arrest when:

• a person is caught when someone presses charges against him or a person is pursued in the act of committing an offence; and
• when it is suspected he or she is going to flee; and identity cannot be established

Suspects can be detained for up to 24 hours without a warrant. Police should notify authorities within 24 hours of your arrest and those authorities have fifteen days to file formal charges. This can be extended to two months for a misdemeanour or six months for a felony.

Provincial governors are permitted to detain individuals if they are suspected of planning a crime, harbouring criminals or constituting a danger to the public.

In addition, you can be arrested when a custody order requests your detention.

If there is no custody order, the Public Prosecutor or the Police can order your temporary detention. This is done when there is a reason for issuing a custody order but a delay in obtaining one.

If you are taken into temporary detention you must be brought before a court by the end of the following working day. Your passport will be retained and the judge must either order your release or issue a custody order. If you are released you will be able to get your passport back.

After questioning, the Public Prosecutor has the right to remand a person charged in custody for a maximum 7 days for a misdemeanour and for 15 days for a felony. The Public Prosecutor has the right to extend custody to a month for misdemeanours and 3-6 months for felonies.

Should you have any questions concerning the legal aspects of your arrest, contact your lawyer. See list of local English-speaking lawyers.

For how long can I be remanded in custody?

You can only be remanded in custody for more than six months:

• if you are suspected of having committed a serious crime; and if extensive investigations are required; or
• for some other important reason
• for some other important reason

If any of these apply, your case must be placed before the competent Court. If the competent Court orders further detention it must be satisfied that:

• there is a strong suspicion that an offence has been committed and that if released, you would flee; or
• your conduct suggests the suspicion that if you were released you might tamper with the evidence or influence witnesses or prejudice the proceedings in some other way and make the investigation more difficult; or
• if you are charged with sexual offences or offences against the person and if there is reason to believe that you will continue to commit these offences if you are not remanded in custody

In practice, this often means that an accused person who is not resident in Jordan will have little chance of obtaining bail because the authorities will be concerned that he may try to flee the country.

Investigation and indictment:

Whilst you are on remand, the Public Prosecutor’s Office (PPO) investigates the alleged offence. The PPO may interview you and any witnesses and collect evidence with the help of the police.

If there is enough evidence to open a prosecution, the investigation stage is formally closed and the trial stage begins. The PPO must then produce an indictment which sets out the details of the accused, the crime of which he or she is accused, when and where it took place, the legal definition of the crime and the criminal laws applicable to the case.

When the judge receives the indictment, dates for the trial will be set. If you are found guilty you will be sentenced. There will be an option to appeal against any conviction and this should be discussed with you lawyer.

What happens when I am charged?

You will have the right to contact a lawyer and to meet him or her. You will be able to see a copy of the indictment against you and any judgements, either direct or through your lawyer.

You are not compelled to say anything to the authorities and are usually warned to this effect.

If you are charged in a language you do not understand, you can request to have it translated.

What provision is there for bail?

Bail is allowed under the penal code. Under the Crime Prevention Law, authorities have full discretion in setting bail and accepting or rejecting guarantors. In practice, an accused person who is not resident in Jordan will have little change of obtaining bail because the authorities will be concerned that he may try to flee the country.

The bail in Jordan must be combined with a warranty (financial), any person can bail the detainee in any stage of the case.

If the bail is refused, the individual is able to apply for bail again.

Conditions are the most important element in refusing or accepting the bail, for example:

• being pregnant or a new mother
• being the only support of old parent
• whether the crime is minor or major

The Public prosecutor or the court has the right to review the bail conditions in any time, whereas the bail conditions cannot be changed or removed by the individual.

If the bail conditions are breached the public prosecutor or the court has the right to put the individual back in detention and to confiscate the bail.

Your lawyer can guide you on how to pay your bail. The FCDO can assist you with contacting friends and family who may be willing to help.

The court may keep your passport if bail is granted.

The FCDO is not able to facilitate the transfer of bail funds.

Trial and legal assistance

What kind of legal assistance is available?

If you wish to hire a private lawyer, a list of English-speaking lawyers is provided at the end of this pack. Prisoners Abroad can also supply information on legal aid, court proceedings and can advise on appointing a lawyer.

Private lawyers may ask for a cash advance for their estimated legal fees before taking on a case. The Embassy cannot pay legal fees or guarantee lawyers that you will pay them. If you do not have a lawyer when you come to trial, the court will not automatically appoint a lawyer for you. If you cannot afford to pay for a lawyer you can apply for a legal-aid lawyer. However, it is very difficult to obtain legal aid for foreign nationals in Jordan.

What happens at the trial?

Individuals are presumed innocent until proven otherwise.

Civilian court trials are open to the public unless the court decides that an open trial would be against the public interest. State Security Court trials are usually open to the media and NGOs but again the court can decide a closed trial is in the public interest.

Defendants may be represented by legal counsel but consultation before trial does not have to take place. Juries are not used. Judges make the determination and impose sentences.

Defendants may present witnesses and evidence. They may question witnesses who give evidence against them but often translators are not provided.

Defendants do not have a right to refuse to testify.

The trial’s process as follow:

1. Recitation of the charges and hearing of the defendant’s statements of being guilty or not guilty.
2. The court would hear the testimony of the victim.
3. The public prosecutor (or the Attorney General or the victim or his/ her lawyer) submits the public right evidences (written evidence or hearing witnesses…etc.).
4. The court informs the defendant that he/ she has the right to give a defensive statement and a defensive evidence (the defendant has to attend this trial session in person).
5. The defendant or his/ her lawyer submits the defensive statement and the defensive evidences (written evidence or hearing witnesses…etc.).
6. The public prosecutor (or the Attorney General or the victim or his/ her lawyer) submits the public right closing.
7. The defendant (or his/ her lawyer) submit the defence closing, them
8. The court gives the final verdict.

The victims can participate in trials in minor cases (penalty does not exceed (2) years of Imprisonment/ Labour sentence) where they can represent themselves (and the public right) without a lawyer (or the public prosecutor or the attorney general).

Other than putting the defendant in custody, there is no provision to protect the vulnerable victims (except in family cases where they get aid from family protection department) or witnesses when giving evidence.

Sentences

In the Jordanian criminal legal system, the Judge determines whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty, also determines the sentence if he/ she found guilty.

The sentence is determined by a judge through the sentencing powers prescribed in the Criminal trials procedures law.

Every case (crime) has its own sentencing guidelines (minimum and or maximum fine amount and/ or years of Imprisonment/ Labour sentence …etc.), the Judge also has the right to reduce or increase the sentence according to the case conditions (it might be less than the minimum but can’t be more than the maximum).

The law permits punishment of up to three years imprisonment for insulting the king, slandering the government or foreign leaders, offending religious beliefs, or stirring sectarian strife and sedition.

In some cases, the judge might order a British detainee to be automatically deported to the UK upon release.

How can appeals be made?

Either the public prosecutor (or the attorney general) or the defendant (or his/ her lawyer) have the right to appeal the first instant court (or magistrate court) final verdict to the court of appeal.

The deadline to appeal the verdict is:

• (10) days for the defendant
• (30) days for the public prosector
• (60) days for the Attorney General from the date of the verdict

The court of appeal may reject the appeal and insist on the original verdict, in this case no more appeals can be accepted on the verdict, on the other hand the court of appeal may accept the appeal and issue another verdict or send the case back to the first instant court (or the magistrate court) to amend the procedures or the verdict or hear witnesses…etc., in this case the new verdict can be appealed as well.

The appeal shall be lodged as follows:

• the magistrate court verdict must be lodged to the court of first instant (2 judges/ appeal duties of the court)
• the court of first instant verdict must be lodged to the court of appeal (3 judges)
• the major felonies court and the state security court verdicts must lodge to the court of cassation directly

If the individual is acquitted the public prosecutor (or the attorney general) can appeal the verdict, and the individual must stay in the country in major cases or in any case which a travel ban has been issued in it.

A harsher sentence can only be given if both case parties appeal.

Any court of appeal verdict in a felony case can be appealed to the court of cassation (5 judges).

Reaching the end of your sentence

What provision is there for reduction of sentence (remission) e.g. for good behaviour?

If you are sentenced to one month or more in prison and you work while you are there, you will be discharged once you have served three-quarters of your sentence.

The Minister of the Interior may release an inmate sentenced to forced labour for life after twenty years if he has behaved well.

What provision is there for early release e.g. on parole?

There is no early release or Parole in the Jordanian criminal legal system yet.

What provision is there for clemency or pardon?

A Public Royal Pardon by the His Majesty the King of Jordan can be issued through a Royal Pardon law, such Royal pardon is given to all defendants and convicted who committed a certain kind of crimes (mentioned in the law), the last (2) Public Royal Pardons in Jordan were in 2011 and 2019.

What about any financial penalties?

Any financial penalties arising from your conviction must be paid within the due date decided by the Judge.

Is transfer to another prison within Jordan possible?

Yes, The Director of General Security can order the transfer of a convicted prisoner from one facility to another.

Is transfer to the UK a possibility?

There is no prisoner transfer agreement between Jordan and the UK.

Find out more about transfers to the UK.

What are the procedures for release and deportation?

If it is decided that you should be deported from Jordan, either while you are in custody or if the charges against you are dropped, the case for your deportation will be heard and agreed in court by a Judge. It is likely that you will not attend.

Once a legal deportation order has been agreed, arrangements for your departure will be made. This can take several weeks. You will normally be returned to the country you came from when you entered Jordan.

Sometimes people find that they face difficulties adjusting to life in the UK once they have left prison. You may find yourself ready for life on the outside but not prepared for living in the UK. Possibly you have never lived in the UK and have no connections there, or perhaps you have lost touch with friends and family. You may simply want to talk to another person who understands what you have been through, to help you consider what to do next.

If you are registered with Prisoners Abroad you can visit Prisoners Abroad when you first arrive back in UK for advice, to take a shower, use their temporary luggage store, make essential phone calls or use a computer. If you have no belongings Prisoners Abroad may be able to help with basic toiletries and finding suitable clothing. If you know your release date in advance it is best to write and tell your caseworker when you are likely to arrive and what help you think you might need. If you have no money and nowhere to go, Prisoners Abroad’s Aftercare Service can help with:

• advice on finding emergency accommodation in the London area
• claiming welfare benefits, including emergency benefit payments if you are destitute
• making appointments with doctors and dentists
• putting you in touch with local agencies if you are not returning to the London area

Later on you may want advice on housing, looking for work, applying for training or getting counselling. Prisoners Abroad can refer you to the right agency.

Other sources of practical help back in the UK are The Salvation Army – UK Helpline 020 7367 4888, Monday to Friday 8 AM to 4 PM, or contact your local Salvation Army branch – and The Prison Fellowship, UK Helpline 020 7799 2500, Monday to Friday 9 AM to 5 PM.

Would I have a criminal record in the UK?

We will not normally pass on information about your case to a third party without your consent. However, if you’re arrested for certain serious offences, such as child sex abuse or drugs crimes, our staff must tell other relevant UK authorities. It is therefore possible that information about this may appear if a Criminal Records Bureau check were carried out by a prospective employer.

Chapter 4: Additional Information

Additional Information

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 awaiting charge or trial. 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
• 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, in a few cases, assistance with the cost of visiting

Prisoners Abroad
89-93 Foothill Road
London N4 3JH
UK
Telephone: 00 44 (0)20 7561 6820 or, for your relatives in the UK, Freephone: 0808 172 0098
(Mondays and Tuesdays 9.30 am to 6pm, and Wednesdays to Fridays 9.30 am to 4.30 pm, UK time)
Email: info@prisonersabroad.org.uk
Website: www.prisonersabroad.org.uk

Glossary of terms

English	Sounds like	Arabic
Appeal	Istinaf	إستناف
Application form	Talab	طلب
Case	Kadhiya	قضية
Case number	Rakam Al Kadhiya	رقم القضية
Complaint	Shakwa	شكوى
Court	Mahkama	محكمة
Deportation	Ibaad	إبعاد
Deposit	Amanat	أمانات
Embassy	Safarah	سفارة
Hearing session	Jalset Al Istimaa	جلسة االستماع
Indictment	Al Touhma	التهمة
Interpreter	Moutarjim	مترجم
Judgement	Hokm	حكم
Lawyer	Mohami	محامي
Money	Flous	فلوس
Notary	Katib Al Adel	كاتب عادل
Plaintiff	Al Modaii	الموضعي
Police	Shorta	الشرطة
Power of attorney	Wakaleh	وكاله
Prison director	Mudir Al Sijn	مدير السجن
Hello	Marhaba	مرحبا
My name is	Ana esmy	أنا إسمي
Good morning	Sabah Al Khair	صباح الخير
Good evening	Masaa Al Khair	مساء الخير
Please	Min fadlak	من فضلك
I don’t know	Ma baaraf	ما بعرف
Thank you	Shokran	شكرا
I am sorry	Ana asif	أنا أسف
How much does this cost	Had bikam	هاد بكم
Yes	Naam	نعم
No	Laa	أل
Could you write that down for me	Momkin tiktobli hatha	ممكن تكتبلي هذا
What time is it	Kam el saa’a	كم السعا
I am cold	Ana bardan	أنا بردان
I am hot	Ana sakhnan	أنا سخنان
This is urgent	Had mohem	هاد مهم
I want to call the Embassy	Momkin atasil bilsafarah	ممكن اتصل بالسفارة
I want to call my lawyer	Momkin atasil bilmuhamy	ممكن اتصل بالمحامي
Can I have some water	Biseer kasit mayy	بصير كاسيت ماء
I need a doctor	Ahtaj ila daktoor	احتاج إلى دكتور
I need medication	Ahtaj adwiyyeh	احتاج ادويه
Can I make a phone call	Momken aamal mukalameh hatifiyeh	ممكن أعمال مكالمه هاتفيه
Can I meet with management	Momken ashoof el idara	ممكن أشوف االدارة
When am I going to court	Imta ana dahib ila al mahkama	امتى أنا داهب إلى المحكمة
Can I have my money	Momkin taatini flous	ممكن تعتني فلوس
I want to make a complaint	Ana andy shakwa	أنا عندي شكوى
I am hungry	Ana jooan	أنا جوعان
I am thirsty	Ana atchan	أنا عطشان
Water	Maa	ماء
Juice	Assir	عصير
Bread	Khobz	خبز
Chicken	Djaj	دجاج
Meat	Lahmeh	لحمه
Fruits	Fawakeh	فواكه
I am diabetic	Andi sokari	عندي سكري
I have high blood pressure	Andi daghet dam	عندي ضغط دم

Annex

• FCDO leaflet: Support for British Nationals Abroad
• FCDO leaflet: In Prison Abroad: Transfer to a UK Prison
• list of English-speaking lawyers in Jordan
• list of English-speaking translators/interpreters in Jordan
• Prisoners Abroad Authorisation form
• Prisoners Abroad family contact form