Truth Legal has announced the launch of legal aid services in asylum and immigration law starting on 1 September this year.
Truth Legal is a Harrogate-based law firm specialising in immigration, personal injury, clinical negligence, employment, and professional negligence. The firm’s defiant move comes in the wake of a shocking wave of far-right attacks against migrants and threats to immigration lawyers.
A Truth Legal spokesperson commented, “This bold move underscores our commitment to defending vulnerable individuals, undeterred by the challenges posed by far-right extremists.”
Addressing a critical need for immigration services
63% of the UK population lack access to an immigration and asylum legal aid provider. This includes no provision available in Harrogate, and scant provision across the whole of Yorkshire and the Humber. Truth Legal is stepping in to fill this urgent gap.
As the firm emphasised in a recent press release, “The recent surge in hostility towards asylum seekers and their legal representatives only heightens the urgency of our work.”
Legal aid representation is crucial for those fleeing persecution and needing to navigate the UK’s complex asylum system. Yet, as the demand for support increases, legal aid funding has dwindled, leaving many without the assistance they need.
Legal aid fees have stagnated since 1996, with cuts introduced in 2011, and no adjustments for inflation. The bureaucratic demands of maintaining a legal aid contract have forced many firms to abandon this vital work. As a result, Truth Legal is approaching this endeavour with caution.
Truth Legal will offer immigration services despite challenges
A spokesperson for Truth Legal commented, “Despite the bureaucratic challenges and low remuneration associated with legal aid work, we are committed to taking on a select number of cases to ensure the highest standards of legal representation. We urge the government to improve legal aid funding, enabling more providers to offer this essential support.
“Truth Legal remains steadfast in our commitment to justice for all. We will not be intimidated by threats and will continue to defend the rights of asylum seekers in the UK.”
Josie Miller
Josie Miller is Editor of Yorkshire Legal News. She welcomes comments and questions.
