Norman Lawson & Co. are specialist immigration and asylum solicitors based in Glasgow city centre. We provide expert legal representation for asylum claims, UK visa applications, immigration appeals, indefinite leave to remain, British citizenship, deportation defence, and judicial review. Whether you are seeking refuge in the UK, applying for a work or family visa, or appealing an immigration decision, our experienced team is here to guide you through every stage of the process. Legal aid and private clients welcome.
Norman Lawson & Co. handles all aspects of UK immigration law. From asylum claims to visa applications to immigration appeals, we provide dedicated personal representation throughout your case.
Asylum Claims & Refugee Status
Expert representation at every stage of the asylum process. We help you prepare a compelling asylum claim, support you through screening and substantive interviews, represent you at appeal if refused, and guide you towards refugee status and beyond. We understand the challenges of presenting your case and ensure your voice is heard.
UK Visa Applications
We advise and represent clients on all UK visa categories including spouse and partner visas, skilled worker visas, student visas, family reunion visas, visit visas, and short-term visas. We guide you through the application process, help gather supporting evidence, advise on eligibility, and liaise with the Home Office to ensure your application is successful.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After five years as a refugee, or after meeting UK residency requirements, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain. This grants you permanent settlement in the UK. We handle the entire ILR application process, advise on eligibility criteria, and represent you throughout.
British Citizenship & Naturalisation
Once you have Indefinite Leave to Remain or meet other eligibility criteria, you can apply for British citizenship. We handle naturalisation applications, advise on eligibility, help with the Life in the UK test, and represent you through the citizenship ceremony. Becoming a British citizen is a significant achievement and we are here to support you.
Immigration Appeals (First-Tier & Upper Tribunal)
If your asylum claim or visa application is refused, you have the right to appeal. We represent clients at the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) and, where necessary, at the Upper Tribunal. Appeals must be made promptly and we ensure your grounds of appeal are properly articulated and your case is strongly presented.
Judicial Review
Where Home Office decisions are unlawful or procedurally unfair, we can apply for judicial review in the High Court. Judicial review challenges the legality of immigration decisions and can be a powerful remedy where tribunal appeal rights are exhausted or unavailable. We advise on the merits of judicial review and handle these complex proceedings.
EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
European citizens and their family members can apply for settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. We advise on eligibility, help you gather evidence of residence, handle applications, and represent you if your application requires further information or is refused.
Deportation Defence
Facing deportation from the UK is frightening. We provide urgent legal representation if you or a family member is subject to deportation proceedings. We explore all available options including appeals, judicial review, and Article 8 human rights claims under the European Convention on Human Rights.
Detention & Bail Applications
If you are detained by Immigration Enforcement, we can apply for your release on bail at the Immigration Tribunal. We handle urgent bail applications and advise on your rights in detention. If detention is unlawful, we challenge it immediately on your behalf.
Fresh Claims & Further Submissions
If your asylum claim was refused, but circumstances have changed significantly, you may be able to lodge fresh claims or further submissions. We assess whether new evidence or changed circumstances warrant fresh claims and handle these applications carefully to protect your appeal rights.
Understanding the Process
The Asylum Process in the United Kingdom
Navigating the UK asylum system can be complex. Here is a step-by-step guide to understanding the process and your rights at each stage. Our solicitors will support you throughout every step.
1
Initial Claim
You can claim asylum at a UK port of entry when you arrive, or in-country with the Home Office. You must claim as soon as possible and declare that you need protection from persecution.
2
Screening Interview
The Home Office conducts an initial screening interview to gather basic information about your journey and identity. You are asked preliminary questions about why you are seeking asylum and your background.
3
Substantive Interview
At your substantive interview, you explain your asylum claim in detail. You must demonstrate that you face persecution based on your race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership of a social group. Legal representation at this interview is crucial.
4
Home Office Decision
The Home Office issues a decision approving or refusing your claim. If approved, you are granted Refugee Status and can remain in the UK. If refused, you have the right to appeal to the tribunal within strict time limits.
5
First-Tier Appeal
If refused, you can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal. Your solicitor presents your appeal and argues why the Home Office's decision is wrong. The tribunal makes a binding decision on your case.
6
Upper Tribunal (if needed)
If you disagree with the First-tier Tribunal's decision on points of law, you can seek permission to appeal to the Upper Tribunal. We advise on whether an Upper Tribunal appeal is appropriate in your case.
7
Refugee Status Granted
If your claim is approved at any stage, you are granted Refugee Status. You can remain in the UK for five years, work, study, access public services, and bring family members to join you.
8
Path to ILR & Citizenship
After five years as a refugee, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain and subsequently British citizenship. We support you through these important milestones towards permanent settlement in the UK.
Why Choose Us
Why Norman Lawson & Co. for Your Immigration Matters
When your immigration case matters most, choose solicitors with proven experience, dedication, and a genuine commitment to your case. Here is why clients trust us with their immigration futures.
Expert Immigration & Asylum Law
Over 20 years of experience in immigration, asylum, and human rights law. We regularly attend the Glasgow Asylum and Immigration Tribunal and understand the latest developments in UK immigration rules, Home Office practice, and tribunal jurisprudence.
Legal Aid & Affordable Access to Justice
Registered with the Scottish Legal Aid Board for immigration and asylum work. We accept both legal aid and private clients, ensuring financial circumstances never prevent you from accessing expert representation when facing deportation or seeking asylum.
Multilingual Support & Cultural Sensitivity
We serve clients from many different countries and backgrounds. Our team communicates in multiple languages and we work with professional interpreters. We understand the trauma and challenges of displacement and provide culturally sensitive, compassionate representation.
Proven Track Record
We have represented hundreds of clients through asylum claims, visa applications, and immigration appeals. We have successfully fought deportations, secured refugee status, and helped families reunite. Your case receives the same personal attention and commitment as every case we handle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Immigration & Asylum Law
Answers to questions we hear from clients seeking immigration advice, asylum support, and legal representation in Glasgow. Can't find your answer? Get in touch and we'll be happy to help.
A person seeking refuge is an asylum seeker during the application process. If the Home Office grants their claim, they become a refugee and receive Refugee Status. As a refugee in the UK, you are typically granted five years Refugee Status, after which you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Refugee Status provides the right to work, study, access public services, and bring family members to the UK. Our solicitors will guide you through every stage of the asylum process.
If your asylum claim has been pending for 12 months and has not been refused at first instance, you may be eligible to apply for permission to work in the UK. Subject to Home Office approval and meeting certain criteria, you may then be able to work in certain occupations. However, if your claim is refused, your work permission is withdrawn. It is essential to seek legal advice about your eligibility and options. Our immigration solicitors can advise whether work permission applies to your circumstances.
If your visa application is refused, you will receive a refusal letter setting out the Home Office's reasons. Depending on the visa type and the grounds for refusal, you may have the right to appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber). Appeals must normally be made within 14 days of refusal. Alternatively, you may be able to make a fresh application if there are significant changes in circumstances. Time is critical when a visa is refused. Contact us immediately to discuss your appeal options.
Yes. We regularly represent clients who are detained by Immigration Enforcement or the UK Border Agency pending deportation or removal. If you or a family member is in immigration detention, we can apply for bail on your behalf at the Immigration Tribunal. Bail applications must be made promptly and we have experience securing bail in urgent circumstances. We also advise on detention conditions and your rights while detained.
The asylum process timeline varies significantly depending on the complexity of your case, the Home Office workload, and whether your case is appealed. An initial decision can take anywhere from several months to over a year. If refused and you appeal, the First-tier Tribunal typically aims to decide cases within six months, though urgent cases are expedited. Some complex cases reach the Upper Tribunal, adding further time. Throughout the process, our solicitors keep you informed and work to resolve your case as efficiently as possible.
Related Areas of Law
Our immigration law expertise extends to human rights and family law matters connected to immigration cases.
Speak to an Immigration Solicitor in Glasgow Today
Whether you need urgent asylum advice, help with a UK visa application, representation at an immigration tribunal, or guidance on any aspect of immigration law, we offer a free initial enquiry by phone or email. No obligation, no rush. We are here to help.
