Upper Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) proceedings include appeals from FTT decisions, country guidance applications, and departure from guidance cases. Expert evidence in UT work must meet the highest evidential standards under CPR Part 35 and Practice Direction 2024.
Oral evidence is more common in Upper Tribunal proceedings, particularly country guidance cases. Experts must be prepared for rigorous cross-examination on methodology, source selection, and independence.
Independent Country Expert coordinates UT instructions to specialists with tribunal acceptance records and experience in country guidance and complex multi-jurisdictional analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is oral evidence required in Upper Tribunal cases?
Oral evidence is most common in country guidance cases or where the tribunal directs. Experts should be prepared to give evidence on current country conditions and profile-specific risk under cross-examination.
What standards apply to UT expert reports?
CPR Part 35, Practice Direction 2024, and Adam Pipe 2025 guidance all apply. UT reports require the highest methodological rigour, dated primary sources, and demonstrable independence.