We advise and represent in cases involving the suitability requirements, formerly the “general grounds for refusal,” which are the reasons that the Home Office may apply, and in some circumstances must apply, to refuse immigration applications, from visit visas to settlement and citizenship, even if the applicant would otherwise meet the Immigration Rules. 

One Pump Court’s immigration team barristers have experience of cases across the very broad range of issues relating to a person’s character or conduct that fall for consideration under the general grounds: allegations of deception, previous breaches of immigration rules (for example through overstaying or working in breach of conditions), criminal convictions, unpaid NHS debts, or concerns about use of false documents. We can advise on refusals turning on disputed facts and on the evidence required to challenge these.

We can advise on the implications of a finding of deception, including long-term bans on an individual re-entering the UK. 

Our immigration team barristers are all public law specialists. We regularly are instructed to:

• Assess the strength of evidence on which the Home Office relies
• Advise on procedural fairness and public law grounds of challenge
• Draft pre-action letters and grounds for judicial review
• Represent at court

We are trusted by solicitors and lay clients for our expertise, clarity of advice and advocacy.