Legal Aid practitioners must obtain LAA prior authority before instructing expert witnesses. The application must demonstrate that expert evidence is necessary, the proposed fee is reasonable, and the instruction timeline allows fair proceedings.
Include in prior authority applications: specific issues requiring expert analysis, expert qualifications and CV, indicative fee estimate with breakdown, tribunal deadline, and explanation of why CPIN or Country Guidance alone is insufficient.
LAA rates for immigration expert witnesses vary by discipline, jurisdiction complexity, and urgency. Country condition reports for major jurisdictions with security deterioration require more research time and attract higher fees than straightforward cases.
Do not instruct the expert to begin work until prior authority is granted. Document the authority reference in the letter of instruction. If authority is refused, explore review, adjournment, or alternative funding before proceeding.
Related Resources
- Fees
- Legal Aid tribunal evidence
- How to instruct
- CPR Part 35 expert witness duties
- Immigration expert witness network directory
- Contact us
Frequently Asked Questions
What fee information does the LAA need?
Indicative total fee, hourly rate if applicable, estimated hours, any disbursements, and comparison with standard rates for the expert discipline and jurisdiction.
Can I instruct an expert before LAA authority?
You may contact experts for availability and fee estimates before authority, but the expert should not begin substantive work until prior authority is granted.