Who? Sophie Lucas, solicitor, Duncan Lewis, London.

Sophie Lucas

Why is she in the news? The firm represented seven appellants in a legal challenge against the government over plans to send asylum seekers to Rwanda, where their applications would be determined. Last week the Court of Appeal ruled that removal of asylum seekers to Rwanda would be unlawful unless and until deficiencies in the asylum process are corrected.

Thoughts on the case: ‘The appeal concerned the lawfulness of the policy to remove asylum seekers to Rwanda for their claims to be determined there. The Duncan Lewis team, led by Toufique Hossain, represented seven appellants who were due to be removed on the first scheduled flight last June. We worked with an incredible counsel team led by Raza Husain KC. The Court of Appeal found that the policy is unlawful. The arrangements made between the UK and Rwanda, and the assurances provided as part of this, cannot “wipe away” structural issues. It found substantial grounds for believing there is a real risk asylum seekers removed under the scheme would be subject to inhuman or degrading treatment. Government officials were well aware of the crucial deficiencies in Rwanda’s asylum system from the inception of this policy. The secretary of state has publicly announced her attention to seek permission to appeal to the Supreme Court.’

Dealing with the media: ‘The secretary of state has repeatedly attempted to villainise lawyers who challenge her policies. This harmful narrative has also been peddled in the media. It has been concerning to read headlines following this decision that have even attacked the judges who determined the case. It is important to communicate to the public that the decision was not political. The panel decided the case on facts before it, based on the evidence adduced by the government itself and the UNHCR. Media interviews on this controversial policy can be challenging. There is a lot of misinformation, and the government fans hostility towards lawyers. Angry far-right protesters have attempted to interrupt and intimidate during live recordings. It is important that the issues are accurately communicated to the public. No one is above the law, including the secretary of state.’

Why become a lawyer? ‘Law is a tool. I like that it reconciles tangible results for individuals, with an ability to contribute to broader change.’

Career high: ‘Meeting a client after securing his release from detention. He had been detained indefinitely despite living with severe health conditions that could not be adequately treated in the detention centre. He was finally reunited with his wife and children.’

Career low: ‘Watching my clients languish in the Home Office’s systems. This is compounded by legal aid deserts across the country.’

Topics