Legal Aid funding for expert evidence
Legal Aid Agency (LAA) funding is available for expert evidence in asylum and immigration cases where the claim has merit and the expert evidence is necessary. Prior authority is required for reports exceeding standard fee thresholds.
AfricaExpertWitness provides rates compatible with LAA prior authority requirements. Standard single-country country condition reports from £800 are within typical prior authority ranges.
Prior authority process
Apply for prior authority before instructing the expert. Provide: the expert's CV and qualifications; proposed scope of report; fee estimate; and explanation of why expert evidence is necessary. The LAA assesses whether the cost is proportionate to the issues in the case.
Multi-issue reports (LGBTQI+, FGM, trafficking combined) and multi-country reports require higher prior authority amounts - typically £1,200–£2,500.
Urgent instructions
Where a hearing is listed within 5–10 days, urgent instruction is possible subject to expert availability. Contact AfricaExpertWitness immediately with the hearing date, funding confirmation, and scope of report required.
Urgent reports may attract a supplementary fee. Confirm LAA prior authority covers the urgent rate before instruction.