Download a Model CNA Standard Operating Procedure

The obligations of consular notification and access are not codified in any federal statute.  Implementing legislation is not necessary because executive, law enforcement, and judicial authorities can implement these obligations through their existing powers on the basis of the relevant treaties and written guidance such as the Department of State's consular notification and access handbook.  Implementation may also be facilitated through issuance of internal directives, orders, or similar instructions by appropriate federal, state, and local officials to their subordinates.  For example, many local police departments incorporate instructions on consular notification into their local manuals. 

The Department of State strongly encourages all law enforcement agencies to develop standard operating procedures for complying with consular notification and access requirements.  Not only will this help your agency avoid costly litigation and diplomatic complaints, a written directive governing procedures for assuring CNA compliance is now also mandatory for CALEA accreditation.  The Model SOP on this page is intended for agencies to use as a template - please feel free to add or remove language to best fit your agency's needs.  Questions and comments about the Model SOP can be emailed to: consnot@state.gov.