Stephen specialises in various areas of public law and human rights. Stephen has a particular focus on judicial review, inquests, immigration and asylum law, actions against the police and prison law. Stephen regularly acts in unlawful detention claims brought against the Home Office in the County Court. He has been successful in obtaining basic and aggravated damaged for Claimants in claims against the Home Office.As sole and junior counsel, he has acted in the High Court, Upper Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum); Employment Appeal Tribunal, and Court of Appeal.

Stephen begins by outlining the Asylum Support Legal Framework in the UK, highlighting recent developments in legislation as well as the consequences and implications of relevant case law. He then gives a clear summary of general points and themes that he has uncovered through his practice, providing helpful advice based on a wealth of experience. He ends with a reflection on the implications of these changes and themes, and makes estimations for the future of the practice.

Key Words/Topics:

Asylum seekers
Asylum Support Legal Framework
R (HA and Ors) v SSHD [2023] EWHC 1876 (Admin)
R (SA) v SSHD [2023] EWHC 1787 (Admin)
Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 (“the 1999 Act”).
Asylum Support Regulations 2000 (“the 2000 Regulations”)
Asylum Seekers (Reception Conditions) Regulations 2005 (“ASR 2005”)
Twin-track test established in R (NB) v SSHD [2021] EWHC 1489 (Admin) [2021]; (§§ 161 and 171);
Healthcare Needs and Pregnancy Dispersal Policy
The Illegal Migration Act 2023
CPR18