backKing & Spalding provided pro bono representation to Paul Watson, an environmental activist and founder of the Sea Shepherd, on his successful battle against an extradition request made by Japan. Watson was detained Greenland earlier this year at the request of Japan, based on a decade-old warrant linked to events in 2010, allegations he has consistently denied. Following arguments about the procedural concerns surrounding the extradition request and the undue impact of a case dating back 14 years, Watson was released from detention following Denmark’s decision to reject Japan’s extradition request.
King & Spalding represented Watson throughout the process, led by Paris partner Jean Tamalet, who recruited and managed a cross-border team of fellow counsel from various jurisdictions to support in Watson’s extradition appeal. Other lawyers involved were Francois Zimeray, Wiliam Bourdon, William Julié, Rachel Lindon, Marion Crecent, Emmanuel Jez, Jonas Christoffersen, Julie Stage and Finn Meinel.