Tribunal Advocate

Immigration & Asylum Tribunal AdvocatePhilip Jones Legal

Department: Immigration & AsylumRole: Tribunal Advocate / Senior Immigration CaseworkerIAAS Senior Caseworker Accreditation PreferredPhilip Jones Legal is seeking an experienced Immigration & Asylum Tribunal Advocate to join our immigration team.

The successful candidate will have substantial experience of advocacy before the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) and be confident conducting hearings independently.Law Society Immigration and Asylum Accreditation Scheme (IAAS) Senior Caseworker accreditation is strongly preferred.The RoleThe successful candidate will be responsible for conducting immigration and asylum advocacy, with particular emphasis on Tribunal work. Duties will include:Conducting advocacy before the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber).Representing clients in asylum, protection, human rights and immigration appeals.Conducting immigration bail hearings and other appropriate Tribunal hearings.Preparing thoroughly for hearings, including reviewing appeal bundles, witness statements, Home Office decisions and supporting evidence.Drafting and/or settling skeleton arguments and written submissions where appropriate.Advising clients on prospects, evidence and Tribunal procedure.Conducting conferences with clients and witnesses in preparation for hearings.Undertaking examination-in-chief, cross-examination and oral submissions where required.Identifying evidential or procedural weaknesses in cases and providing clear advice to the caseworker or supervising solicitor.Working closely with solicitors and caseworkers to ensure cases are properly prepared for hearing.Maintaining accurate attendance notes and providing prompt written hearing reports following advocacy.Ensuring all work complies with Tribunal directions, professional obligations and the firm's procedures.Candidate RequirementsWe are particularly interested in candidates who:Have demonstrable experience conducting advocacy in the Immigration and Asylum Chamber.Have strong knowledge of UK immigration, asylum, protection and human rights law.Are confident handling hearings independently and dealing professionally with judges, Home Office Presenting Officers and opposing representatives.Have excellent oral advocacy, legal analysis and drafting skills.Can work effectively under pressure and manage urgent Tribunal deadlines.Have experience working with vulnerable clients and, where appropriate, interpreters.Have a sound understanding of Legal Aid work and immigration case management.Are organised, reliable and able to take responsibility for their own hearings and preparation.AccreditationLaw Society IAAS Senior Caseworker accreditation is preferred.Applications from candidates with substantial Immigration and Asylum Chamber advocacy experience who do not currently hold Senior Caseworker accreditation may also be considered, depending upon experience and qualifications.What We Are Looking ForThis role would suit an advocate who is comfortable taking ownership of Tribunal hearings rather than simply undertaking occasional advocacy. We are looking for someone who can analyse a file quickly, identify the central issues, prepare effectively and present the client's case clearly and persuasively before the Tribunal.The advocate will work closely with our immigration solicitors and caseworkers and will be expected to maintain high standards of client care, preparation, professionalism and regulatory compliance.