Information Pack for British Prisoners in
Azerbaijan 2015
Author
Date
British Embassy Azerbaijan
21 May 2015
Contents
Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 3
Who can help? .................................................................................................................. 3
About the Embassy ........................................................................................................... 3
Who are the Consular Representatives? ........................................................................... 3
Who will know I have been detained? ................................................................................ 4
What will my family be told? .............................................................................................. 4
What will the Embassy do?................................................................................................ 4
Would I have a criminal record in the UK? ......................................................................... 4
VISITS .................................................................................................................................. 4
How do my family and friends arrange a visit?................................................................... 4
How many visits am I allowed? .......................................................................................... 5
Consular visits ................................................................................................................... 5
What can visitors bring? .................................................................................................... 5
Arrival at police station ...................................................................................................... 5
General prison conditions .................................................................................................. 6
How can I receive money? ................................................................................................ 6
Can I work or study in prison? ........................................................................................... 6
Can I receive medical and dental treatment? ..................................................................... 6
Food and Diet .................................................................................................................... 7
Mail/Parcels ....................................................................................................................... 7
Can I make telephone calls? ............................................................................................. 7
Leisure and entertainment ................................................................................................. 8
Drugs ................................................................................................................................ 8
How can I make a complaint about mistreatment? ............................................................ 8
The Azerbaijan Judicial System .......................................................................................... 10
Is the system the same as the UK? ................................................................................. 10
What should happen when I am arrested? ...................................................................... 10
For how long can I be remanded in custody? .................................................................. 10
What happens when I am charged? ................................................................................ 10
What provision is there for bail?....................................................................................... 11
What kind of legal assistance is available ........................................................................ 11
What happens at the trial? ............................................................................................... 12
Sentences ....................................................................................................................... 12
How can appeals be made? ............................................................................................ 12
What provision is there for reduction of sentence (remission) e.g. for good behaviour? ... 12
What provision is there for early release e.g. on parole? ................................................. 12
What provision is there for clemency or pardon? ............................................................. 12
What about any financial penalties? ................................................................................ 12
Is transfer to another prison within Azerbaijan possible? ................................................. 12
Is transfer to the UK a possibility? ................................................................................... 12
What are the procedures for release and deportation?......................................................20
Annexes……………………………………………………………………………………………21
Disclaimer ....................................................................................................................... 35
2
Introduction
Who can help?
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO):
The FCO is represented overseas by its Embassies and Consulates (High Commissions 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 general questions about your welfare and about prison regulations but you
must ask your lawyer or the court about legal matters and prison regulations. The British
Embassy can provide a list of lawyers for your convenience, but neither Her Majesty’s
Government, nor any official of the Embassy, can 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?
Andrew Harvey
Her Majesty’s Consul
Fidan Mammadova
Pro-Consul
Contact Information
British Embassy Baku
45 Khagani Street,
AZ1010, Baku, Azerbaijan
Tel: (994 12) 437 7878
Fax: (994 12) 437 7434
Website: http://www.gov.uk/azerbaijan
Email: Baku.Consular@fco.gov.uk
3
FIRST STEPS
Who will know I have been detained?
When a British National is arrested and detained in Azerbaijan the authorities are required
to inform the British Embassy. This is usually done in writing and normally takes a week or
10 days to reach us. We may be informed much more quickly by friends or relations, or,
exceptionally, by the prison social worker. However, on occasions it has taken the authorities
weeks to let us know that a UK national has been detained.
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.
What will the Embassy do?
Once contacted we will seek official permission to visit as soon as possible. However, please
note that this normally at least takes 7 to 10 days. Longer delays in permission being
granted are not unusual.
During our routine visits you will have the opportunity to discuss any health issues, security
concerns, your treatment in prison and any other general issues that you wish to raise with
our consular staff. At each consular visit, our staff will complete a "Visit Report Form". If
there is any information that you would prefer not to disclose to a Next of Kin you should let
us know during the visit.
If appropriate, we will consider approaching the local authorities if you are not being treated
in line with internationally-accepted standards.
Would 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?
Under Articles 81 and 84 of the Sentencing Code you have the right to meet with your
relatives, lawyers and other nominated persons approved by the authorities. We advise
family members to contact the Embassy well in advance, preferably months before, so that
we can seek permission and inform the prison governor. Consular officers will accompany
your family during their first visit to the prison; the subsequent visits by your family will be
unaccompanied.
In order to receive visitors you should provide the prison with the names of the people
visiting you for them to be added to the prison visiting list. We will provide information on
visiting procedures and details of what visitors can bring should your family members decide
to come to Azerbaijan.
4
There are two types of visit:
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
short term (up to 4 hours)
long term (1 to 3 days)
Short-term meetings are allowed with relatives and people resident in Azerbaijan.
Long-term meetings are allowed only with next of kin i.e. husband, wife, parents,
grandfather, grandmother, children, those who adopted and being adopted, grandchildren,
sister, brother.
All visits are subject to approval by the Azerbaijani authorities.
How many visits am I allowed?
In the majority of the prisons, you are allowed to receive visitors any day of the week. Some
temporary prisoners are only allowed visits on certain days of the week. Please check with
the prison social workers when visits are allowed.
When family members come from the UK for visits consular staff usually try to arrange extra
visit days considering the distance families had to travel to see you. These extra days are
given by the prison governor and the decision is discretionary.
Consular visits
We aim to visit every three/four months. During our routine visits you will have the
opportunity to discuss any health issues, security concerns, your treatment in prison and any
other general issues that you wish to raise with our Consular staff. At each Consular visit,
our staff will complete a "Visit Report Form". If there is any information that you would prefer
not to disclose to a Next of Kin you should let us know during the visit.
What can visitors bring?
Annexes B, C and D at the end of this pack have details on the sorts of items that can and
cannot be taken into a prison. Families should contact the FCO in advance of their visit so
we can provide them with an updated version and offer advice on specific restrictions.
PRISON CONDITIONS/SERVICES
Arrival at police station
When someone is arrested they are taken to prison in the first instance. Any belongings that
are not part of the investigation, process, or evidence will be sent to the prison. It is
unfortunately but not unusual for some belongings to go missing right after arrest or during
prison transfers.
The British Embassy cannot store your personal belongings on your behalf. The only
property we can keep for you are your passport and driver’s licence. However, these are
usually retained at the courts until the end of your sentence. Please note that your passport
might be kept by the courts as evidence of the alleged crime or as a condition for your
bail/parole.
Medical checks will be carried out by the prison health department in order to assess if you
need any treatment for ongoing medical conditions (e.g. blood pressure, diabetes, HIV).
5
General prison conditions
Article 91 of the Sentencing Code provides for the legal basis for the conditions in which you
will be detained. Your living area should be lit, the temperature kept at a reasonable level
(not less than +18 degree in winter), and ventilated. You should have access to a toilet and
running water. You should also be provided a berth and bedding. There will be limited
storage space for your personal belongings and foodstuffs
Most prisons will have a laundry and hairdresser. You should be allowed to shower once a
week and to change your used bedding. The authorities should also provide seasonably
suitable clothes, underwear and footwear.
Despite improvements in recent years, overcrowding remains a problem so you cannot
expect a single cell as a matter of course. You will most likely be kept in a communal room.
How can I receive money?
There are two ways in which you can receive financial assistance while in prison.
 Private Funds: Deposited with the FCO by your family or friends.
 Prisoners Abroad: If your family can’t support you financially Prisoners Abroad
may be able to send you a small grant every quarter for essentials.
Irrespective of the kind of the sentence served you have the right to receive money. On your
arrival in prison, the administration should open a personal account for you. All remittances
and earnings (e.g. from prison work) will be transferred to your prison account.
Money received from the UK will be converted into local currency and held on your behalf by
the Embassy. Our Consular staff will then transfer your funds to you – usually on a monthly
basis. Money sent to you will be deposited in your prison account, where this facility is
available, or will be given directly to you. Please note that our Consular staff cannot be
responsible for the loss of funds by the Prison Authorities.
Please note that the Embassy does not provide financial support to British Nationals in
prison abroad. However, we can facilitate help with money issue by making the sender to
transfer the money through FCO from UK.
Can I work or study in prison?
There are usually employment opportunities available within prison. However, it is difficult for
the prison to supply work for all prisoners because there are not enough jobs to go round.
You will need to apply for a vacancy and wait for an opening. If you work you will earn a
salary.
Study opportunities are also available, but limited because of language issue. A limited
number of prisons offer language courses. Learning and development opportunities will vary
from prison to prison.
Can I receive medical and dental treatment?
Article 93 of the Sentencing Code details preventive treatment offered. Each prison will have
its own medical division offering a limited range of services. Prisoners who need for qualified
medical attention will be sent to special prison hospitals.
6
If you need medical or dental treatment you should make an appointment to see the prison
doctor or dentist. In some large prisons it can be difficult to get an early appointment but if
the situation is urgent you should contact the prison social worker, who may be able to get
you an appointment more quickly than through the normal channels.
Prison doctors are often the equivalent of GPs in the UK, so unusual or complex problems
may be referred to a specialist outside the prison. You have the right to approach payable
medical institutions to get medical consultations and treatment. Either you or your relatives
should cover the costs of such services. In such cases the medical consultation or treatment
will be supervised by the prison
Food and Diet
The prison authorities have assured us that the food they provide is a balanced diet
supplying the necessary daily nutritional requirements. A special diet can only be provided
on medical (e.g. diabetes, high blood pressure) grounds. This does not apply to vegetarians.
You can supplement your diet by buying fruit and other items from the prison shop, when
available. You should be provided with meals three times a day.
Mail/Parcels
Article 83 of the Sentencing Code covers correspondence with relatives, friends or other
persons. You can receive or send at your expense any number of letters and telegrams.
There is usually no limit to the number of letters you may send or receive. The prison
authorities are obliged to deliver letters with the minimum of delay.
Please be aware that the prison might read your letters. Article 83.2 of the Sentencing Code
allows letter to be checked. Anything containing cryptic or conditional symbols or reflecting
the activity of the prison, or containing state secret or unseemly expressions, will not be
passed on but destroyed. If you are told you are not allowed to receive letters in English, you
should notify a Consular officer and we will communicate with the Governor of the prison.
You can receive parcels from your family. Your parcel-post, parcels, presents or remittance
to be received during a year depends on the kind of sentence served institution that you are
at. Please be aware that parcels should be sent directly to the prison; parcels sent to the
Embassy will not be forwarded to you. Parcels must have the name and details of the
sender, otherwise the parcel will be refused. The weight of a parcel cannot exceed the 10kg.
Parcels are often rejects because they contain the following:

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Medicines or medical items.
Restricted literature - publications propagandising the war, violence and brutality, or
rousing national and religious hatred, as well as publications of pornographic
character or to subscribe and disseminate them.
Stationery.
If in doubt please ask the FCO.
Can I make telephone calls?
You have the right to x12 10 minute phone conversations (landline) a year. Prisons usually
have special room set aside. The Governor may in exceptional cases grant you an additional
phone conversation upon request.
7
The charges for long distance and international telephone conversations are covered at your
or your relatives’ expense. You can either use you prison account or pre-paid phone cards to
make calls.
The administration will supervise the short-term meetings and telephone conversations and
in case of infringement of established rules, the meeting or telephone conversation will be
suspended.
The procedures to grant meetings and telephone conversations are determined by the
Internal Discipline Rule of each prison.
According to Azerbaijan law no prisoner can have access to mobile phones. If you are
caught trying to use a mobile phone inside the prison you will be punished according to the
prison’s regulations.
Leisure and entertainment
Prisons often have a library with a wide range of books available for inmates, though mostly
in Azerbaijani or Russian. Inmates usually have limited access to a communal TV.
You are allowed to perform religious rites, as well as to use religious attributes and literature
whilst serving your sentence. The prison will usually have a room set aside for prayer.
Religious leaders are allowed to visit prisoners to perform religious rites. The performance of
the religious rites is voluntary and should not conflict with the Internal Discipline Rules of the
sentence served institution, as well as to infringe the rights of other prisoners.
Drugs
If you are caught with any kind of illegal drugs (marijuana, cocaine, etc) you will be punished.
You risk losing any job or development opportunity and might be sent to solitary confinement
or have your prison term extended.
Cigarettes are allowed only in specified areas inside Azerbaijani prisons
How can I make a complaint about mistreatment?
Under Azerbaijani law prisoners have the right to make an official complaint. Most issues
should be raised with the prison authorities first. However, if you do wish to file a serious
complaint we advice that you consider alerting the Embassy and speaking to your lawyer.
You can write to the following bodies about your sentence or violation of your rights, as well
as violation of your rights by the administration.
1. Milli Mejlis (National Assembly) of the Azerbaijan Republic
1 Hussein Djavid Ave., Baku;
2. The President’s Office of the Azerbaijan Republic
19 Istiglaliyyat Street, Baku;
3. The Ministry of Justice of the Azerbaijan Republic
1 Inshaatchilar Ave, Baku
4. The Main Department for Execution of the Sentences of Court at the Ministry of Justice
114 Nizami Street, Baku
8
5. The Supreme Court of the Azerbaijan Republic
Zahid Khalilov Street, Block No. 540
6. General Prosecutor’s Office of the Azerbaijan Republic
7 N. Rafibeyli Street, Baku
7. Prosecutor’s Office of Baku
32 Uz. Hajibeyov Street, Baku
8. Human Rights Centre of Azerbaijan
165-3 B. Safaroglu Street, Baku
9. The Society for Protection of Women’s Rights named after Dilara Aliyeva
1 Aziz Aliyev Street, Baku
10. Legal Education Society
23 Khagani Street, Baku
9
The Azerbaijan Judicial System
The Embassy cannot interfere with the Azerbaijan Judicial system. We cannot ask for your
case to be judged quickly or ask the authorities to waive any penalties. Below you will find
more information about the Azerbaijan judicial system.
Is the system the same as the UK?
In Azerbaijan the legal system is based on civil law. Judicial power is vested in independent
courts of Azerbaijan: Constitutional Court, Supreme Court and High Economic Court,
general and specialized courts of the Azerbaijan Republic. This website has more details
http://www.loc.gov/law/help/guide/nations/azerbaijan.php.
The Constitution of the Azerbaijan Republic is the basic foundation of the Legislative system
in the Republic. Azerbaijani courts do not rely extensively on case law and judicial
precedent. Except for decisions of the Constitutional Court of Azerbaijan, decisions of the
courts are not usually counted as a source of law. The sources of law in the Azerbaijani legal
system are

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
The Constitution of Azerbaijan.
Acts adopted via referendum.
Laws passed by the National Assembly of Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan's legislature.
Decrees.
Resolutions of the Cabinet of Ministers.
International treaties to which Azerbaijan is a party.
What should happen when I am arrested?
You will be taken to a prison facility; it is possible that you will spend one night at an airport
holding cell or police station. In some cases you might be taken to a detention centre, which
has slightly inferior standards in comparison to other prisons.
At the moment of your arrest you should be made aware of your rights; one of them is to
have a phone call to speak to a family member. You should inform the authorities if you wish
the British Embassy to be informed of your arrest.
The arresting officer might want to take a statement from you. This has to be done with a
translator or someone who can speak English. Do not sign documents you do not
understand and always ask for a lawyer to be present.
If you can’t afford a private lawyer the Azerbaijan government will appoint a public defender
for you.
For how long can I be remanded in custody?
It is likely that you will remain in custody until your trial. There is no set time for this.
Hearings usually take place 3 to 6 months from the date of arrest although in some cases
this may be longer.
What happens when I am charged?
The courts will inform you, your lawyer/public defender and the prison authorities of your
sentence. If you don’t have a private lawyer you will be assisted by a public defender who.
10
Your basic rights are as follows:
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


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




to serve the sentence in condition that secures the respect of a person;
to be engaged in socially useful labour;
to rest;
to get out-patient and stationary medical aid depending on the medical conclusion,
including the first medical aid;
to get information on your own rights and responsibilities, including the procedures
and conditions of the sentence execution pursuant to the decision of the court;
to appeal, propose, or complain in your National Language or other foreign language
on the protection of your rights and freedom in an order determined in the Legislation
of Azerbaijan Republic and, in case of necessity, to use an interpreter on the
mentioned matters that are presented by the management of the sentence serving
institution;
to take part in religious rites;
to get legal advice;
to be educated and receive a trade
to appeal in the court either personally or via a legal representative on delay of the
sentence served or on its cancellation; on discharge of the sentence served; on
discharge of the sentence served under state of health; on discharge of the sentence
served in connection with the execution term of the sentence; conditional discharge
ahead of time of the sentence served; on change of the remaining part of the
sentence to a simpler type of the sentence; on change of place of imprisonment to
another one; on conclusion of treatment period into an imprisonment period; on
discharge of the sentence ahead of time; and to appeal to the President of
Azerbaijan Republic on amnesty either personally or via a legal representatives, as
well as in the event of teenagers or prisoners suffering from physical defects or
psychic diseases to appeal either via the defence counsels, or via their legal
representatives thereto.
Prisoner having the status of a ‘foreigner’ or those without citizenship or refugees
have the right to address on their personal matters within a short term to the
diplomatic missions or consular representations of their countries in Azerbaijan
Republic, or to the national or international organisations undertaking the trusteeship.
Not be subjected at all to cruel treatment or treatment abasing human dignity. The
measures of compulsion can be applies in regards to you pursuant to the Legislation.
What provision is there for bail?
Serious crimes don’t have provision for bail. There are bail provisions for other minor
offences such as offending a civil servant, damaging public assets and others. Your
lawyer/public defender will be best placed to advice on this matter.
What kind of legal assistance is available
Under Article 61 of the Constitution of Azerbaijan Republic all citizens has the right to legal
advice. You can hire a lawyer for yourself at any time after your arrest; a list of Englishspeaking lawyers will be given to you by a Consular officer. Normally, if you hire a private
lawyer they will ask for a cash advance for their estimated legal fees before they will take
your case on. The British Embassy cannot pay legal fees or guarantee to a lawyer that you
will pay them.
The number and length of meetings with your lawyer are not limited. The meetings can be
held face-to-face at your or your lawyer’s request.
11
What happens at the trial?
On your trial day you will be taken to the court office where your case is being handled.
There will be a judge in charge of your case along with the public prosecutor and your lawyer
or public defender. If you don’t speak Azerbaijani the court will provide a translator or you
can hire one yourself. Many courts in Azerbaijan make the defendant sit in cage.
Sentences
Sentences vary greatly in Azerbaijan and will depend on the seriousness of the crime. Your
lawyer/public defender will be best placed to advice on length of sentences and on appeals’
processes.
The Sentencing Code was adopted by Milli Mejlis (National Assembly) of Azerbaijan
Republic on July 14, 2000, and entered into effect on September 1, 2000. The legislative
standards used to regulate the sentencing.
How can appeals be made?
You have the right to appeal against your sentence in the Higher Courts through your lawyer
or public defenders. However, the appeal process is usually very slow and can sometimes
lead to the appellant's release being delayed until the appeal is decided. In such cases a
lawyer's opinion of the case is strongly recommended before proceeding.
What provision is there for reduction of sentence (remission) e.g. for good behaviour?
Please seek legal advice from your lawyer.
What provision is there for early release e.g. on parole?
Please seek legal advice from your lawyer.
What provision is there for clemency or pardon?
In Azerbaijan, pardon/clemency can only be given by the President. A pardon/clemency
means that although the prison sentence will end the person will still have a criminal record.
Please seek legal advice from your lawyer on how to apply.
What about any financial penalties?
Please seek legal advice from your lawyer on this matter.
Is transfer to another prison within Azerbaijan possible?
Transfers are only permitted when there are exceptional and compassionate reasons for
doing so.
Is transfer to the UK a possibility?
Both sentencing and receiving countries need to agree to transfer. Key condition being any
applicant, who is in the process of an appeal or has an unpaid fine, is unlikely to qualify for
transfer. You can apply for transfer to the prison authorities either in person or via your
lawyer. You need to discuss the details with your lawyer as the Consular staff are not legally
trained.
12
Please note that the FCO does not get involved in the decision making or transfer process
that is carried out by the Ministry of Justice, National Offenders Management Service
(NOMS) and the local authorities in country.
A prisoner does not have an automatic right to transfer. Each request is considered on its
individual merits. The UK and the country in which the British prisoner is held have the right
to refuse a request.
The basic criteria for eligibility to apply for transfer are:
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



Criminal proceedings in the foreign country must be complete. The prisoner
cannot be transferred if they are awaiting trial or the outcome of an appeal;
The prisoner must normally have at least 6 months of the sentence left to
serve at time of application, but Agreements with some countries require the
prisoner to have 1 year of the sentence left to serve;
The offence for which the prisoner was convicted must constitute a criminal
offence in the UK;
The prisoner must have no outstanding fines (prisoners can start the
application process while the fine is outstanding but the fine must be paid
before the transfer can take place) or other non-custodial penalties;
Other conditions may apply, depending on the specific transfer arrangements
with each country.
What are the procedures for release and deportation?
Please seek legal advice from your lawyer.
13
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
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: info@prisonersabroad.org.uk
Website: www.prisonersabroad.org.uk
14
ANNEX A
Options to transfer funds to British Nationals Overseas via the Foreign and Commonwealth
Office
Please note: we can only advance funds to the person overseas, once your payment has
cleared in our account.
1) ELECTRONIC BANK TRANSFERS: Contact your bank to arrange.
A “BACS” transfer usually takes 3-5 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 12-24 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
Acct 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.
2) BY POST
Payments by Postal Order, Bankers Draft or Building Society cheque should be
crossed and make 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 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.
3) 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.
15
To: Foreign and Commonwealth 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:
16
ANNEX B
The list of food products and goods prohibited to sell or pass on to prisoners:
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Valuable items including pocket and wrist watches made of precious metals,
valuable notes
Optic equipment
All kinds of alcohol drinks, all kind of perfume and other substances based on alcohol
Medicines, drugs, psychotropic substances
Hardware tools
Playing cards
Photo cameras, photo materials and chemical substances
Topographic maps and compass
Military and other uniforms including accessories
Radio transmitting and receiving devices of all kind including pager, mobile phones,
computer, typewriter, Xerox machine
Cutting and perforating tools
Paint and carbon copy
All kind of electric and mechanical appliances excluding a shaver and water boiler
Civil clothes excluding the type of clothes allowed in prison
Publications propagating wars, violence and cruelty, instigation between nations and
religions, pornographic literature
ANNEX C
The list of goods and items prohibited in prison and therefore cannot be stored by
prisoners
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

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



Fire and cold weapons of all types, fighting supplies
Motion devices
Money, valuable items, including pocket and wrist watches made of precious
metal, valuable notes
Optic equipment
All kind of alcohol drinks including perfume and other substances, based on
alcohol
Medical drugs and equipment
Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances
Radio transmitting and receiving devices of all kind including pager, mobile
phones, computer, typewriter, Xerox machines
Hardware tools
Cutting and perforating tools
Playing cards
Photo cameras, photo materials and chemical substances
All types of documentation excluding copies of court decisions and deposit
receipts for valuables and money
Publications propagating wars, violence and cruelty, instigation between nations
and religions, including the pornography
Topographic maps and compass
Military and other uniforms including the accessories
Civil clothes excluding the type of clothes allowed in prison
17
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

Paint and carbon copy
Glass jar and canned food
All kind of electric and mechanical appliances excluding a shaver and boiler
ANNEX D
The list of food and essential goods allowed to be kept by prisoners
Food:

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





Bread and other bakeries
Salty fish (not required to be cooked)
Butter, fat
Cheese
Dry sugar
Tea leafs
Fruit, vegetables including dried fruit
Milk and other dairy products
Tobacco, matches, lighter
Goods:
 Clothes, hats, shoes and bed linen assigned for convicts according to special
regulations
 Two sets of underwear and warm clothing
 Socks, gloves – 2 pairs only, scarf, handkerchief, belt, sewing kit
 Sleepers and sport shoes – a pair of each
 Track suit (one)
 Mirror, mechanical or electrical razor
 Mug, spoon
 Toiletries: facial, hand and washing soap, tooth brush and tooth paste, comb
 Crutches with doctor’s prescription
 Stationery for those who study
 Literature – limited to 10 books per convict
 Plain paper, notebooks, different pens and ink, pen refills, stamps
 Domino, chess, drafts (one set each)
 Letters, photos (albums)
 Shoes and clothes brushes, shoe cream
Notes:
Women convicts can also keep headscarfs, bras, stockings, belt, hair clips, vaseline, cotton,
shampoo, lipstick, compact powder, tampax and facial/body creams.
Any other electrical appliances except shaver are prohibited in prison. The total weight of
prisoner’s possessions should not exceed 50 kg, including deposited goods
18
Annex E
List of lawyers in Azerbaijan
Prepared by British Embassy Baku
www.gov.uk
The following list of lawyers has been prepared by the British Embassy Baku for the
convenience of British Nationals who may require legal advice and assistance in
Azerbaijan. 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.
List of lawyers in Baku, Azerbaijan
Updated: 05 February 2015
This list is in alphabetical order (following Honorary Legal Advisor’s details).
Alibi Professional Legal and Consulting Services LLC
Vagif Ave 3, 1st Floor, Baku, Azerbaijan
+994124802850; +994552494966
office@alibi.az
www.alibi.az
This company has told us the following things:
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



They have English speaking staff.
They are not affiliated to any local authority/body.
Specialisations are in incorporation, legal support of business activities, litigation, and
representation before judicial and regulatory authorities, corporate dispute, debts collection
and contracts law.
They have experience of representing British nationals.
They can provide legal aid.
They can offer a Pro Bono service.
Staff speak English, Azeri, Russian and Italian.
They cover all regions of Azerbaijan.
They don’t have international offices in any other countries.
19
Baker & McKenzie - CIS, Limited
Landmark III, 8th Floor
96 Nizami Street
Baku AZ1010 Azerbaijan
Tel. (994 12) 497 18 01
Fax. (994 12) 497 18 05
Sevinge.Dadashova@bakermckenzie.com
This company has told us the following things:

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




They have English speaking staff.
They are not affiliated to any local authority/body.
Specialisations are in Antitrust/Competition, Banking and Finance, Corporate and M&A,
Dispute Resolution, Employment, Energy Mining Infrastructure, Hotels & Tourism, Intellectual
Property, IT & Telecommunication, Real Estate and Tax.
They have experience of representing British nationals.
They can provide legal aid.
They can’t offer a Pro Bono service.
Staff speak Azeri, English, Russian, French and Turkish.
They cover Baku.
They have 77 international offices in many different countries. For info please visit
www.bakermckenzie.com.
Caspian Legal Centre
Metbuat Ave. 18/7, Quarter 539, Baku, Azerbaijan
+994558688693; +994502898973
office@caspianlegalcenter.az
farid.nabili@gmail.com
www.caspianlegalcenter.az
This company has told us the following things:

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




They have English speaking staff.
They are not affiliated to any local authority/body.
Specialisations are in any area of law including company establishment, business law,
taxation/accounting, construction, real estate, migration, employment, and litigation personal
legal matters except criminal law.
They have experience of representing British nationals.
They can provide legal aid.
They can offer a Pro Bono service.
Staff speaks Azeri, English, Russian, Turkish and German.
They cover all regions of Azerbaijan.
They don’t have international offices in any countries.
Dentons
Hyatt International Center, Hyatt Tower 2, 8 Izmir Street, Baku AZ1065, Azerbaijan
+994124907565
20
aygun.mammadova@dentons.com
http://www.dentons.com/
This company has told us the following things:


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




They have English speaking staff.
They are not affiliated to any local authority/body. However, one of their lawyers is a member
of District of Columbia Bar and the Barreau de Paris and two lawyers are members of the
New York Bar. In addition, one lawyer is a member of Collegium of Advocates.
Specialisations are in foreign investment, Energy, Corporate Law, Commercial Law, Mergers
& Acquisitions, Banking &Finance, Tax & Customs, Administration, Employment, Intellectual
Property, Data Collection Litigation and Real Estate.
They have experience of representing British nationals.
They can provide legal aid.
They can offer a Pro Bono service for some selected cases.
Staff speaks English, Azeri, Russian and French, some also speak German and Turkish.
They cover whole Azerbaijan.
They have international offices in 75 locations, 50 countries across Africa, Asia Pacific,
Canada, Central Asia, Europe, Middle East, Russia, CI, Caucasus, UK and USA.
Michael Wilson & Partners, Ltd.
SAT Plasa, 9th Floor, 133, Bashir Safaroglu Street, Baku, AZ1009, Azerbaijan
+ 994 12 497 89 48;
fax: + 994 12 497 89 47
Aygun.Abbasova@mwp.kz
www.mwp.kz
This company has told us the following things:









They have English speaking staff.
They are not affiliated to any local authority/body.
Specialisations are in Corporate, Banking, Finance, Merger & Acquisition, Litigation &
Arbitration, Intellectual Property, Employment, Mining and Taxation.
They have experience of representing British nationals.
They can provide legal aid.
They can offer a Pro Bono service.
Staff speaks Azeri, English, Russian, Turkish and Kazakh.
They cover Central Asia and the Caucasus.
They have international offices in Kazakhstan and British Virgin Islands.
MGB LAW OFFICES
Apt. 28-30, Rasul Rza Street 15, Baku, AZ1000, Azerbaijan.
+994 12 493 6669 or 493 2939
Fax: +994 12 498 7132
mailto: ismail.askerov@mgb-law.com
www.mgb-law.com
This company has told us the following things:


They have English speaking staff.
They are not affiliated to any local authority/body.
21
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

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
Specialisations are in Corporate, Finance, Banking, Tax, Property, Employment, IP and other
areas of commercial law and also Family Disputes and Criminal Proceedings.
They have experience of representing British nationals.
They can provide legal aid.
They cannot offer a Pro Bono service.
Staff speaks Azeri, English, Russian, Turkish and French.
They cover all regions of Azerbaijan.
They don’t have international offices in any countries. However the MGB acts as the local
counsel for number of major UK firms including Allen &Ovary, Linklaters and Pinsent Masons.
PwC
Landmark Office Plaza III | 12th Floor, 90A Nizami Street | AZ1010 Baku | Azerbaijan
+994124972515
sara.isakova@az.pwc.com
http://www.pwc.com/az
This company has told us the following things:


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




They have English speaking staff.
They are not affiliated to any local authority/body.
Specialisations are in Trade and Business Law.
They have experience of representing British nationals.
They can provide legal aid.
They can offer limited Pro Bono service.
Staff speaks Azeri, English, Russian, French, Turkish, Italian and Arabic.
They cover all regions of Azerbaijan.
They have international offices in 776 cities across 157 countries.
Wicklow Corporate Services LLC
8/15 Sheikh Shamil Street, Baku AZ1001, Azerbaijan
+994124926837; +994506450997
abati@wicklowcs.com
This company has told us the following things:









They have English speaking staff.
They are not affiliated to any local authority/body.
Specialisations are in Company and Commercial Law, Employment Law, Contracts, Oil and
Gas issues and Tax.
They have experience of representing British nationals.
They can provide legal aid.
They cannot offer a Pro Bono service.
Staffs speak Azeri, English and Russian.
They cover Baku.
They don’t have international offices in any countries.
22
Feedback Form for Customers
If you do decide to use any of the lawyers 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 Embassy by post to 45A Khagani Street,
Baku, AZ 1010, Azerbaijan or by email to baku.consualr@fco.gov.uk.Thank you for your
help.
Name of firm:
Name of lawyer:
Date of contact:
Are any of the details on our list regarding this provider wrong? (e.g. address, telephone
number, etc.)
What service did you need?
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
Poor
Very Poor
(d) How would you rate the value for money?
Excellent
Good
Average
Do you have any other comments?
23
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 □
Feedback provider’s name:
Tel. No.:
Email:
Date
ANNEX F
List of translators and interpreters in Baku, Azerbaijan
Prepared by British Embassy Baku
www.gov.uk
The following list of translators and interpreters has been prepared by the British
Embassy Baku for the convenience of British Nationals who may require these
services and assistance in Azerbaijan. 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 Baku, Azerbaijan
Updated: 03 February 2015
This list is in alphabetical order.
Anglo American Business Services
AZ1014, Baku, Nasimi, 28 May
+99412 497 1381
+99412 497 1382
+99412 497 7272
Fax: +99412 498 2055
www.alliance3a.com
24
info@alliance3a.com
This company has told us the following things:





They are not affiliated to any local authority/body.
Specialisations are in recruitment, education, translations, business development, consulting,
PR, notarization of translations and editing services.
They have experience of representing British nationals.
Staff speaks English, Russian and Azeri.
They cover whole country, mainly Baku.
Atlanta Business
Address: U.Hajibayov str 23, Baku, Azerbaijan
(012) 493 13 97 /
Tel:
(050) 440 22 38
E-mail: ATLANT-BIZNES@ATLANT-BIZNES.AZ
Faks :This company has told us the following things:





They are not affiliated to any local authority/body.
Specialisations are in translation, interpretation, notarization, apostils, legalization, business
consulting documentation processes, equipment leasing for interpretation services and events
management.
They have experience of representing British nationals.
Staff speaks English, Russian and Azeri.
They cover whole country, mainly Baku.
CBM Translation, Interpretation and Language Support Services
55 Khojaly Avenue, AGA Business Center, 9th Floor
+994 12 464 4296
+99450 220 2312
office@cbm.az
This company has told us the following things:





They are not affiliated to any local authority/body.
Specialisations are in translation to/from any language, professional editing, desktop
publishing, proofreading and “fresh eye “final reading, interpretation, certification, notarization
of translations, legalization of certified translations, editing for audio and video presentations.
They have experience of representing British nationals. They have extensive experience of
successful cooperation with the British companies including BP Exploration Caspian Sea,
URS Corporation Ltd and RSK Group PLC.
Staff speaks English, Azerbaijani, Russian and Turkish.
They cover whole country.
25
English Language Solutions
55, Nizami str. (9, Azerbaijan ave.)
Baku, Azerbaijan
+994 12 4973710
+994 12 4974009
+994 12 4933154
info@langsols.az
This company has told us the following things:





They are not affiliated to any local authority/body.
Specialisations are in delivering management skills courses, Azerbaijani and other language
training, translation services
and providing the test for the energy industries - the Safety English Test
They have experience of representing British nationals.
Staff speaks English, Russian and Azeri.
They cover whole country, mainly Baku.
Global Trust
Address:
Tel/Fax:
E-mail:
Website:
69 S.Vurgun str. Apt. 2, Baku, Azerbaijan
+994 12 418 11 33
info@globaltrust.com.az
www.globaltrust.com.az
Xəqani 52
Faks :This company has told us the following things:





They are not affiliated to any local authority/body.
Specialisations are in editing, interpretation and translations.
They have experience of representing British nationals.
Staff speaks English, Russian and Azeri.
They cover whole country, mainly Baku.
Rapid Translation LTD
44, J.Jabbali street, Caspian Plaza III, 6 floor
Tel: (012) 417 53 74 /
(055) 779 79 26
office@rapidtranslation.az
This company has told us the following things:





They are not affiliated to any local authority/body.
Specialisations are in editing, interpretation and translations: technical, general business,
education and training, financial and legal, medical and pharmaceutical.
They have experience of representing British nationals.
Staff speak English, Russian and Azeri.
They cover whole country, mainly Baku.
26
Senator LLC
Baku, Yasamal District,
Alasgar Alakbarov str 3.
(+994 12) 5-10-43-76;
(+994 12) 5-10-03-76;
(+994 55) 217-37-05;
office@senator.az
This company has told us the following things:





They are not affiliated to any local authority/body.
Specialisations are in translation (written and verbal), foreign language courses, HR and legal
services.
They have experience of representing British nationals. They used to employ a British
national (Canadian passport holder) as their native English language teacher\Director of
Studies
Staff speak English, Russian, Azeri, Turkish, and French.
They cover whole country, mainly Baku.
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 Embassy by post to 45A Khagani Street,
Baku, AZ 1010, Azerbaijan or by email to baku.consualr@fco.gov.uk.Thank you for your
help.
Name of firm:
Name of translator/interpreter:
Date of contact:
Are any of the details on our list regarding this provider wrong? (e.g. address, telephone
number, etc.)
What service did you need?
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?
27
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
Poor
Very Poor
(d) How would you rate the value for money?
Excellent
Good
Average
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 □
Feedback provider’s name:
Tel. No.:
Email:
Date
28
Disclaimer
This booklet was compiled by the Consular Section, British Embassy Azerbaijan. It is revised
on a regular basis.
If any of the information contained in this booklet is incorrect, please draw inaccuracies to
our attention so that we can make amendments.
The British Embassy in Baku is not accountable for the information provided in this booklet.
Local proceedings are subject to change at any time.
Thank you.
21 May 2015
29