Identify the Profile
Determine the appellant's asylum profile: LGBTQ+, IPOB/Biafra, Boko Haram/North-East, FGM, trafficking/juju, political persecution, or multiple profiles. This determines which CPINs and expert specialism are required.
Legal Aid or Privately Funded?
Most Nigeria expert reports in asylum proceedings are Legal Aid funded. Confirm funding status before instruction. Privately funded cases follow a different fee structure.
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.
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 (SOGIESC June 2025, IPOB April 2026, actors of protection August 2024).
Provide All Relevant Materials
Include the screening record, Asylum Interview Record (AIR), Home Office refusal letter (RFRL), client witness statement, any previous expert reports, and relevant CPINs.
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.
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 Nigeria expert reports in UK asylum proceedings are Legal Aid funded. LAA prior authority is required before instruction. Typical LAA-approved rates are £50 to £100 per hour for report preparation, with fixed-fee reports from £800 for standard country condition reports. See the instructing guide aligned with the Adam Pipe October 2025 requirements.
Instruct an Expert