Hi, my name is John, and I work as a Litigation Caseworker in the Appeals, Litigation and Returns (ALAR) Directorate at the Home Office. I joined the department in September 2024, and since then, my role has grown from learning the fundamentals of judicial review processes to independently managing complex immigration litigation cases. My position combines legal analysis, stakeholder engagement, and strategic decision-making, which I find to be both challenging and rewarding.
My journey began at the University of Portsmouth, where I studied Law with Business and graduated with a 2:1 and CILEx Level 6 Diploma in Legal Practice. During this time, I developed strong analytical and communication skills through coursework and practical projects, including advocacy exercises and public speaking initiatives. These experiences taught me how to interpret complex legal material and be able to present statements and arguments clearly to key stakeholders- these skills have proven to be transferable in my current role. After graduating, I worked full time at a pub as a bartender for 3 years to which I then worked as a re-mortgage case handler for 2 and a half years before joining the Home Office to pursue my interest in working in the public sector.
A typical day starts at 8:30 a.m. by reviewing any new pre-action protocol letters and judicial review claims received overnight. These formal challenges often raise complex legal arguments, so I assess each claim against the Immigration Rules and policy guidance to determine whether the decision can be defended or needs to be conceded. Accuracy is crucial as every assessment must be legally sound and evidence-based in order to avoid any ongoing costs to the taxpayer.
By mid-morning, I draft responses to PAPs, clearly setting out the department’s position and identifying any operational errors that require correction. I liaise with decision-making units to ensure remedial action is taken promptly. Later, can involve attending contacting Government Legal Department (GLD) lawyers to discuss any ongoing judicial reviews. Together, we agree on the correct action, whether that being producing summary grounds of defence or agreeing to consent orders- I approve them on behalf of the Secretary of State. I also coordinate evidence gathering, such as securing supporting documents, decision letters from the Home Office, in order to support our case in court.
Afternoons can involve working with cost consultants and legal advisers to ensure settlements are proportionate and defensible. Throughout the day, I maintain constant communication with stakeholders such as GLD, operational teams, and senior caseworkers, balancing legal precision with practical solutions.
Before finishing, I update my case records and draft internal notes highlighting policy issues identified through recent claims. These insights help improve decision-making across the department. No two days are the same, but every task contributes to the fair and lawful application of immigration law.
What I enjoy most about my job is the variety and impact. Each case matters, and my decisions help uphold justice and protect public confidence in the immigration system. The Home Office supports my development through training and mentoring, and I value the flexibility that allows me to balance work with personal commitments. For anyone considering a career here, I’d say it’s an opportunity to make a real difference while building expertise in an ever-changing area of law.
