Victoria Laughton acted for a refugee who had been refused British citizenship on the basis that she was an illegal entrant and therefore of bad character.

Victoria challenged the refusal by way of judicial review on the basis that the policy was unlawful and/or had been applied unlawfully. After bringing a claim, the Home Office conceded the case and granted her citizenship.

Read coverage of the case via The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/dec/15/woman-who-fled-and-torture-in-drc-wins-uk-citizenship-case-after-home-office-u-turn 

Victoria was instructed by Jed Pennington of Wilson Solicitors.

Victoria is also instructed in the lead claims challenging the aspects of the Good Character policy relating to illegal entry/dangerous journeys (led by David Chirico KC). Permission has been granted, and the hearing is likely to be heard in June 2026.