Member Article

First for North Yorkshire with launch of new immigration law specialism

A Harrogate firm of solicitors has broken new ground by launching an immigration law department.

Truth Legal, based on Victoria Avenue, has appointed Louis MacWilliam to spearhead the brand new specialism, which is believed to be a first for a North Yorkshire law practice.

Louis has focused exclusively on the complex field of immigration law for more than a decade, attracting a growing number of both private and business clients across the UK.

“We are delighted to welcome a lawyer of Louis’ calibre to the team as our inaugural Head of Immigration,” said Andrew Gray, Founder of Truth Legal.

“With over 250,000 EU nationals living and working in Yorkshire and the Humber alone, this is a niche and ever-changing area of law that can have a devastating impact on many employers and employees if not navigated correctly.

“Although Louis attracts clients from all corners of the UK, we believe we are the first solicitors based in North Yorkshire to offer a dedicated department and a genuine immigration specialist.

“His appointment also strengthens the pool of talent that exists in Harrogate’s burgeoning legal sector.”

Louis advises businesses on the hiring of non-EU workers, guiding them through the complex process of applying for, and managing, the required sponsor licence.

His services are increasingly in demand with regard to securing the rights of EU employees and planning for life after Brexit. He provides training to business owners and HR staff on the new EU Settlement Scheme and as well as providing strategic advice to organisations around Brexit and immigration.

Louis also assists individuals in relation to applications for EU nationals and their family members, as well as medium and highly-skilled workers. He also assists with challenges to Home Office visa refusals.

After completing a Master’s degree in Human Rights, Louis launched his immigration law career in Bradford before moving to London where he took up a role at Bindmans.

Among the high-profile clients he successfully supported there was Brian White, the student who won a protracted battle to remain in Britain and take up his place at Oxford University after a nationwide campaign.

Louis, a former Leeds University student, returned to Yorkshire to work for Blacks solicitors in Leeds in 2018, before establishing the new department at Truth Legal.

A member of the Immigration Law Practitioners’ Association, he is an experienced litigator having represented clients in immigration tribunals and in the High Court. His is also an accomplished speaker and author on immigration law issues.

Since opening its doors just seven years ago, Truth Legal has grown into a team of nearly 20 staff and, in addition to its immigration law specialism, has recently launched consumer law and property litigation departments.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by richard chew .