About Philip Jones Legal
Philip Jones Legal is a boutique UK legal firm offering high-quality legal services across Corporate & Commercial, Business & Private Immigration, and Immigration & Asylum matters. The firm has an active Legal Aid Agency contract for Immigration & Asylum work, delivering strategic, client‑focused representation in complex protection and human‑rights cases.
Role Overview
We are seeking a bright, motivated and client‑centred NQ Solicitor to join our Immigration & Asylum team. This role is ideal for a newly qualified Solicitor with a passion for public law, human rights and immigration protection work, keen to develop technical excellence and advocacy skills in both the Home Office and Tribunal environments.
Key Responsibilities
Casework & Client Representation
* Prepare and manage a varied caseload of immigration and asylum matters under supervision.
* Draft and submit detailed asylum applications and other protection-based claims.
* Prepare clients for Home Office screening and substantive interviews.
* Draft high‑quality witness statements outlining credibility, risk and country‑condition issues.
* Assist in the preparation of appeals, including skeleton arguments and Tribunal bundles.
* Attend First‑tier and Upper Tribunal appeals and represent clients effectively.
Legal Analysis & Advice
* Provide clear, accurate legal advice and guidance to clients on immigration, asylum, human rights and related issues.
* Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of immigration and asylum law, policy changes and case law affecting client outcomes.
* Conduct legal research and analyse complex legal issues for written submissions.
Legal Aid & Compliance
* Conduct Legal Aid eligibility assessments and prepare necessary documentation.
* Maintain compliance with Legal Aid Agency contract obligations and firm procedures.
* Work within regulatory standards relevant to immigration advice and services.
Client Care & Communication
* Build strong client relationships with empathy and professional integrity.
* Communicate sensitively with vulnerable clients, including those with trauma histories.
* Liaise with external stakeholders – including NGOs, Home Office caseworkers and barristers.
Team Contribution
* Work collaboratively within the team and support more junior staff.
* Contribute to case strategy discussions and knowledge‑sharing within the department.
* Participate in internal training and supervision sessions.
Skills & Experience
Essential
* Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales (NQ status).
* Some experience (e.g. during training contract/seat) in immigration/asylum or public law practice.
* Strong legal drafting and advocacy potential.
* Excellent communication skills and ability to engage with vulnerable clients.
* Commitment to high standards of client care and ethics.
Desirable
* Experience with Legal Aid work or exposure to immigration appeals.
* Familiarity with Tribunal processes and Legal Aid Agency contracts (though training will be provided).
* Additional language skills.
What We Offer
* Hands‑on experience in high‑impact Immigration & Asylum cases.
* Supportive supervision and professional development opportunities.
* Exposure to advocacy before the First‑tier and Upper Tribunals.
* A collaborative and inclusive working environment.
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