London barrister Marc Brittain, 65, is facing potential extradition to Croatia where he could be imprisoned for three years after his ex-wife Tamara Katavic accused him of domestic abuse, including an alleged strangulation attempt. Brittain denies the allegations, branding his ex-wife a “psychopath” and a “liar” in court hearings.
Background of the dispute
The couple married for 15 years and had one son, splitting their time between England and Croatia. Their marriage ended in December 2021 after a heated argument over money. Brittain claims Katavic cleared his bank account of £85,000, including a Covid-19 Bounce Back loan and rental income from a Camden property. Katavic denies stealing and says the money was used for family expenses or repaid.
Katavic has accused Brittain of years of domestic abuse, including an incident where she says he tried to strangle her. Brittain insists he “didn't put a hand on her” and points to a doctor's report that found no injury. He was arrested and held for several days, with his passport confiscated for seven months.
Legal proceedings in England and Croatia
Brittain is fighting extradition at Westminster Magistrates' Court, where a judge heard he has a dangerous heart condition. He also brought a civil claim in the High Court for return of the £85,000, but Mr Justice Morris stayed the claim pending family court proceedings. The judge refused Brittain's request for Katavic's full bank statements, which Brittain argued would show she lied about the money.
Katavic, representing herself via video link from Croatia, accused Brittain of coercive and controlling conduct and said she is owed £60,000 in maintenance. She asked the judge to pause Brittain's claim until the divorce case concludes.
Impact and ongoing case
Brittain faces criminal charges in Croatia for multiple counts of domestic abuse, including the strangulation claim. He told the High Court: “If I get sent back, they want to put me in prison for three years for something I haven't done.” A further extradition hearing is scheduled. The national domestic abuse helpline is available at 0808 2000 247, and the men's advice line at 0808 8010 327.
