The Adam Pipe October 2025 Guide
Adam Pipe's Expert Reports in the Immigration Tribunal guide (October 2025, No.8 Chambers) sets out key requirements for expert evidence in immigration proceedings. Reports must be the independent product of the expert, address matters within expertise, cite sources, and comply with Practice Direction requirements.
Reports that simply reproduce CPIN content without independent analysis fail to meet the standard identified in the guide.
Letter of Instruction Requirements
The letter of instruction should identify the expert's role, list questions to be addressed, provide all relevant case materials, specify the deadline, and confirm funding arrangements. For Nigeria cases, identify the specific asylum profile (LGBTQ+, IPOB, FGM, etc.) and the CPINs relevant to the claim.
Include the screening record, Asylum Interview Record (AIR), Home Office refusal letter (RFRL), and client witness statement as minimum materials.
Legal Aid Prior Authority
Most Nigeria expert reports in asylum proceedings are Legal Aid funded. LAA prior authority is required before instruction. Typical LAA-approved rates are £50 to £100 per hour for report preparation, with fixed fee reports also available.
Apply for prior authority as soon as the need for expert evidence is identified. Include the expert's CV, proposed scope, and estimated cost.
Documents to Provide
Provide: screening record, AIR, RFRL, any previous expert reports, country guidance decisions, CPINs relevant to the claim, client witness statement, and any supporting documentary evidence.
The more complete the instruction materials, the more focused and cost-effective the expert report.