United Kingdom - Scotland • Employment
Burness Paull LLP
Burness Paull LLP's business and personal immigration expertise attracts a broad range of public and private sector players, including energy companies and offshore oil and gas businesses, sport associations and professional bodies alongside space exploration clients, among others. Edinburgh-based team head Grace McGill specialises in commercial immigration, inter-country adoption work and family migration; the last-mentioned segment is an area of particular expertise for senior associate Amna Ashraf. Known for his cross-border capabilities, Jamie Kerr's recent workload includes post-Brexit sponsor licences and skilled worker visas. Director Nikki Weir's expertise extends to child migration.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘They are always willing to consider any issues carefully and tailor their advice accordingly.'
‘Grace McGill is an outstanding solicitor with great client empathy and a focus on practical results.’
‘Grace McGill is the leading immigration solicitor in Scotland. She is an outstanding performer.’
‘In addition to having an in-depth knowledge of immigration law, the team is incredibly personable.'
‘Jamie Kerr's advice is quickly tailored to every matter and in addition to the legal aspects, he offers rounded and practical tips to make the immigration process smooth.’
‘While no application is easy, I can say with confidence that I would use Burness Paull again without hesitation, given their excellent track record.’
‘Amna Ashraf's warmth, humour and expertise gave us confidence in the process and comfort in the outcome.'
‘The team is a recognised group of leading immigration lawyers in Scotland. The team is diverse with many members playing a role in organisations outside the legal profession in contributing to societal change and policy development.’
Key clients
- Skyrora Ltd
- Modulr Technology Ltd
- SSE plc
- Association of Certified Chartered Accountants
- Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh
- Noble Drilling UK Ltd
- Queen’s Park Football Club
- Hibernian FC
- Arnold Clark
Work highlights
- Advised Skyrora on multiple international transfers, including the relocation of skilled space sector engineers from Ukraine into the UK.
- Advised the Scottish Football Association on sports visa rules and the abolition of the Tier 5 concession that allowed easy entry to the UK for international coaching staff that work in the UK but live abroad.
- Ongoing immigration support to the in-house team at SSE plc, including visa advice and right-to-work matters.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading individuals
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Grace McGill