Immigration psychiatry | FAQs for solicitors
Immigration Medico-Legal Psychiatric Reports – FAQ for Solicitors
Answers to common questions about immigration medico-legal psychiatric reports, asylum assessments, expert evidence and Legal Aid Agency funding. Assessments are undertaken by appropriately registered experts, with Section 12 approved psychiatrists appointed where relevant to the case.
Browse FAQsImmigration Medico-Legal Psychiatric Reports – Frequently Asked Questions
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Immigration medico-legal psychiatric reports are independent expert assessments used in asylum and human-rights proceedings. They evaluate an individual’s mental health in relation to the issues in dispute in the claim. These reports are usually requested by solicitors or other authorised legal representatives.
Reports are prepared by appropriately qualified and registered experts. A Section 12 approved psychiatrist may be appointed where that approval is relevant to the issues in the case. Reports address the letter of instruction and the applicable tribunal directions and procedural requirements.
Reports are prepared independently to address the letter of instruction and the issues in dispute in the immigration or asylum appeal. The expert works to the Tribunal Procedure (First-tier Tribunal) (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) Rules 2014, the Practice Direction of the Immigration and Asylum Chamber of the First-tier Tribunal, and any directions made in the case. CPR Part 35 is addressed where the matter is before a civil court rather than the Tribunal, and Legal Aid Agency requirements are considered for legally aided cases.
We arrange psychiatric or psychological assessments that address trauma, PTSD and other mental health issues relevant to immigration and asylum claims. The assessment is undertaken by an appropriately registered psychiatrist or psychologist, selected according to the clinical questions and the scope of the referral. Cultural, communication and trauma-related factors are considered where relevant.
We support legally aided cases and can provide an itemised quotation and the proposed expert’s CV for a prior-authority application where required. The referring solicitor remains responsible for the application, and the documentation is prepared with reference to relevant Legal Aid Agency requirements.
We respond to new enquiries within minutes during office hours. Assessment appointments and report deadlines are confirmed after the scope of the referral, available records, case deadline, complexity and expert availability have been reviewed. Urgent matters are prioritised where feasible, but no fixed assessment or report delivery time is promised.
Solicitors and other authorised legal representatives across the UK can appoint Psychiatry Experts to assist with immigration medico-legal psychiatric reports. Learn more about the independent duties of expert witnesses at Judiciary – Expert Evidence Guidance .