Which sequence correctly describes the typical MLAT process from start to finish?

Which sequence correctly describes the typical MLAT process from start to finish?

• A. Request from the requesting state; transmission through central authorities; formal channeling; collection of evidence; transmission of results; execution of supporting measures; closing of request.
• B. Transmission through central authorities; request from the requesting state; collection of evidence; formal channeling; transmission of results; execution of supporting measures; closing of request.
• C. Request from the requesting state; collection of evidence; transmission through central authorities; formal channeling; execution of supporting measures; transmission of results; closing of request.
• D. Request from the requesting state; formal channeling; transmission through central authorities; collection of evidence; closing of request; transmission of results; execution of supporting measures

Answer: (A)

The process hinges on a formal, stepwise flow where the request travels through the proper legal channels before evidence is gathered. It starts with a formal request from the requesting state, sent to its central authority. That central authority then forwards the request to the central authority of the requested state, initiating formal channeling to route it to the appropriate authorities there. Once the request is properly channeled, the authorities in the requested state collect the necessary evidence in accordance with their domestic procedures. After the evidence is collected, the results are transmitted back to the requesting state. If needed, the requesting state can seek execution of certain supporting measures by the requested state’s authorities, and finally the request is closed once the process is complete. The sequence would be out of order if steps were skipped or rearranged—for example, starting with transmission through central authorities before a formal request exists, collecting evidence before proper channeling, or closing the request before results and measures are completed.

The process hinges on a formal, stepwise flow where the request travels through the proper legal channels before evidence is gathered. It starts with a formal request from the requesting state, sent to its central authority. That central authority then forwards the request to the central authority of the requested state, initiating formal channeling to route it to the appropriate authorities there. Once the request is properly channeled, the authorities in the requested state collect the necessary evidence in accordance with their domestic procedures. After the evidence is collected, the results are transmitted back to the requesting state. If needed, the requesting state can seek execution of certain supporting measures by the requested state’s authorities, and finally the request is closed once the process is complete. The sequence would be out of order if steps were skipped or rearranged—for example, starting with transmission through central authorities before a formal request exists, collecting evidence before proper channeling, or closing the request before results and measures are completed.