PakistanCountryExpert

How to Instruct a Pakistan Expert Witness

Seven steps for UK immigration solicitors and Legal Aid practitioners.

1

Identify the Profile

Determine the appellant's asylum profile: Ahmadi Muslims, blasphemy accusations, Shia Muslims, women and honour-based violence, LGBTQ+, political persecution, Christians and religious minorities, or multiple profiles. This determines which CPINs, Ahmadiyya verification, and expert specialism are required.

2

Legal Aid or Privately Funded?

Most Pakistan expert reports in asylum proceedings are Legal Aid funded. Confirm funding status before instruction. Privately funded cases follow a different fee structure.

3

Prior Authority from LAA (if Legal Aid)

Apply for LAA prior authority before instructing the expert. Include the expert's CV, proposed scope, estimated hours, and fee. Typical LAA rates are £50 to £100 per hour for report preparation.

4

Letter of Instruction

Provide a detailed letter of instruction specifying the expert's role, questions to address, hearing date, and funding arrangements. Reference relevant CPINs (Ahmadis March 2025 Version 6.0, Shia Muslims July 2021, blasphemy, women, LGBTQ+), MN and Others (Ahmadis) Pakistan CG [2012] UKUT 00389, and Ahmadiyya Muslim Association UK verification where applicable.

5

Provide All Relevant Materials

Include the screening record, Asylum Interview Record (AIR), Home Office refusal letter (RFRL), client witness statement, any previous expert reports, relevant CPINs, and Ahmadiyya verification letters for Ahmadi claims.

6

Expert Analysis and Report

The expert prepares an independent report addressing the letter of instruction. Standard reports take 2 to 3 weeks. Urgent reports available in 5 business days.

7

Written Questions and Oral Evidence

If required, respond to written questions from the opposing party. Oral evidence is most common in country guidance cases or where the tribunal directs expert attendance.

Legal Aid

Most Pakistan expert reports in asylum proceedings are Legal Aid funded. LAA prior authority is required before instruction. See our instructing guide for the prior authority process and typical LAA rates, aligned with the Adam Pipe October 2025 requirements.

Instruct an Expert

Instruct a Pakistan Country Expert Witness

Submit your case details for a confidential response within one business day. Legal Aid compatible rates available for all major Pakistani asylum profiles.