Employment
The ‘very experienced and specialist team’ at Bates Wells stands out for its expertise in matters involving the EU Settlement Scheme and the implications of Brexit, family immigration and supporting LGBTQ+ clients with partner applications. Chetal Patel heads the firm’s immigration department, while Tim Barnden leads the personal and human rights practice, offering ’first-class advice’ on family immigration and human rights issues concerning families and EEA nationals. Barnden also maintains a robust surrogacy and adoption practice, working closely with British nationality law expert Alice Bennington. Matthew James has developed a particular specialism in issues arising from relationship breakdowns for migrants, as well as providing guidance to employers and individuals on the EU Settlement Scheme.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Mentions
Profile
Work Department
Immigration
Position
Matthew is a Senior Associate in the Immigration Department at Bates Wells. His work bridges personal and business immigration, advising on applications based on family relationships alongside Global Talent, investor, entrepreneur and innovator applications.
Matthew has built up a particular expertise in advising employers and individuals on the implications of Brexit and the EU Settlement Scheme.
Matthew has also spoken at a number of events for the Creative Industries Federation and the Immigration Industry Association and provided training for ILPA. He has provided commentary for LexisNexis and the wider media.
Career
Senior Associate, Bates Wells, 2024
Admitted as a solicitor, 2017
Trainee Solicitor, Bates Wells, 2015-2017
Paralegal, Bates Wells, 2012 - 2015
Joined Bates Wells, 2011
Memberships
Member of the Immigration Law Practitioners Association
Education
Nottingham Law School, Legal Practice Course, LLB, 2010
Nottingham Law School, Graduate Diploma in Law, 2009
University of Nottingham, BSc (hons) Physics, 2007
Content supplied by Bates Wells
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘As someone who hadn’t had any experience with working with lawyers, this firm was so professional and reassuring. They were beyond helpful with our successful visa application. We are so happy that we found this firm with the amazing people there.'
'Bates Wells is a welcoming, open-minded firm with highly skilled and professional people who care and want to help.’
‘I worked with Tim Barnden and Matthew James, and they went above and beyond. They were friendly, highly intelligent and were so thorough in making sure that everything was correct and would have the best chance at a successful outcome. Matt was so brilliant and so knowledgeable about immigration, it made me feel at ease during a stressful time of uncertainty. We had the best experience with Bates Wells, and we are so thankful to Matthew and Tim for everything.’
‘Very experienced and specialist team. Different departments for different specialisms even within the area of immigration.’
‘Tim Barnden provides first-class advice with strategic thinking and excellent legal skills. He is my go-to immigration lawyer when a client needs advice.’
‘Tim Barnden is excellent.'
'Matthew James was very personable and knowledgeable regarding obtaining “indefinite leave to remain” status. He provided excellent practical advice in filling out the necessary forms and booking appointments with the necessary people.'
'Terrific client relationship building, excellent accountability and attentiveness.'