Frequently Asked Questions

Each instruction begins with a written scope of work setting out the evidentiary gap, methodology, hour estimate, and fee aligned with Legal Aid Agency codified hourly rates. The scope is formatted for submission with your prior authority application to the LAA.

Turnaround depends on scope and country complexity. We work to your hearing date and will confirm a delivery schedule at instruction. Urgent matters are accommodated where capacity allows — please state your tribunal deadline when instructing.

We provide country condition evidence across a wide range of countries of origin relevant to UK asylum and immigration appeals. Contact us with your case particulars and we will confirm availability and specialist fit before you apply for prior authority.

Complete the instruction enquiry form with case particulars, funding pathway (Controlled Work, Certificated Work, or Exceptional Case Funding), and tribunal deadline. We will respond with a scope of work and quote suitable for LAA submission. Email cases@legalaidexpertwitness.co.uk if you prefer to instruct by email.

Yes. Oral expert evidence can be arranged where required. Attendance fees are scoped separately and included in prior authority applications in the usual way.

Each scope sets out the evidentiary gap, proposed methodology, hour estimate mapped to LAA codified rates, total fee, and delivery timetable. It is formatted for direct submission with your prior authority application and can be revised if the LAA requests clarification.

Yes. Reports include the expert's statement of truth, CV, declaration of compliance with CPR Part 35 and FPR Part 25, and the overriding duty to the tribunal under Practice Direction 12. Questions of compliance are addressed in the body of the report.

Case particulars are processed only for the purpose of scoping and delivering expert evidence. We do not share client data with third parties except where required by law or tribunal direction. Instruction enquiries are stored securely and retained in line with our privacy policy.

An expert witness is an independent specialist who provides factual, court-ready evidence about conditions in your country of origin. Their report helps the tribunal understand whether it is safe for you to return.

Yes. If you have a legal aid solicitor, they can apply to the Legal Aid Agency for funding to commission an expert report. You do not arrange or pay for this yourself — your solicitor handles the process on your behalf.

No. Expert evidence is instructed by your solicitor, not by you personally. If you think a country report would help your case, speak to your legal aid solicitor. They will assess whether expert evidence is needed and apply for funding if appropriate.

This depends on your case and tribunal timetable. Your solicitor will agree a delivery date with the expert once Legal Aid Agency funding is approved. The expert works to your hearing date where possible.

Yes. We support legally aided cases before the First-tier Tribunal and Upper Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) across England and Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Scottish legal aid matters are handled in accordance with the Scottish Legal Aid Board framework where applicable.

We work with front-line organisations supporting asylum seekers. Referrals should be made through the instructing solicitor holding the legal aid certificate. Contact us to discuss referral arrangements.

Solicitors and firms should email cases@legalaidexpertwitness.co.uk or use the instruction enquiry form. We are based in London and serve clients across the United Kingdom. We do not provide a telephone line — email ensures a clear written record for case management.