Combining ‘outstanding expertise, dedication and a genuine commitment to their clients’ the immigration group at Burness Paull LLP acts for public authorities, sports clubs, large retailers and private clients. Leading the team, the ’outstanding’ Grace McGill leverages her longstanding experience to assist with citizenship applications, contentious tribunal claims and corporate immigration matters. Jamie Kerr has a human rights and asylum law background and is noted for his capabilities in visa work, often advising sports sector clients, while family migration specialist Amna Ashraf is adept at advising on spousal visa applications. In September 2024, Olivia Mclaren joined the team, and leads the firm's US immigration sub-practice group, boosting the firm’s cross-border capabilities.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Burness Paull was incredibly patient and methodical, guiding me through the necessary questions to fully understand my position before proposing a solution. They didn’t just offer generic advice—they provided a well-thought-out, structured approach tailored to my specific circumstances.'
- 'Grace McGill is an outstanding lawyer, and the leading specialist in immigration work in Scotland. She works very well as part of a team of advisers in complex cases. She is careful, considerate, and genuinely cares that clients secure a just outcome.’
- ‘A very strong team, led by the outstanding Grace McGill.’
- '‘Throughout my experience with Burness Paull, the immigration team stood out for their professionalism, dedication, and willingness to go the extra mile.'
- 'One of the team’s strongest qualities is its transparency and professionalism. They were always realistic about potential challenges but at the same time proactive in finding ways to strengthen my case.'
- 'Overall, the individuals I worked with at Burness Paull demonstrated outstanding expertise, dedication, and a genuine commitment to helping their clients. Their teamwork and client-centred approach made a significant impact on my immigration journey, and I am incredibly grateful for their support.'
Key clients
- The Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh
- Macdonald Hotels
- University of Dundee
- Independent Television Network
- Hibernian Football Club
- Glasgow City Council
- Arnold Clark
- SSE
- Queens Park Football Club
Work highlights
Advise Hibernian Football club with their sponsor licenses and assist with navigating the sponsor management system.
Assist Macdonald Hotels on the preparation and submission of application for all skilled worker visa and their global footprint for recruitment requirements.
Advise on all immigration and visa matters for The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh.
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 partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Amna Ashraf
Practice head
Grace McGill
Other key lawyers
Jamie Kerr; Amna Ashraf; Olivia Mclaren; Nikki Weir