
Harper Macleod LLP assembles a robust practice capable of handling the full spectrum of immigration, asylum, and nationality work. Instructions from SMEs, multi-national corporations, and private clients all form part of the portfolio, keeping the practice busy in recent times. The practice is co-led by overall employment head Bruce Caldow and Ashley Fleming, who routinely assists clients from the marine, healthcare, and hospitality sectors. Elizabeth Basi’s capabilities span advising corporate clients on preventing illegal working, developing compliance practices, and drafting right-to-work policies.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- I was extremely impressed with their work ethic, knowledge, and willingness to help and advise.
- We have consulted with Harper MacLeod on a number of occasions, more often than not with their Employment team. However, this was the first time we had engaged with Liz Basi and Ashley Fleming in the Immigration team, and my entire management team was hugely impressed with the speed of their responses and how accommodating and supportive they were. I’m so grateful we approached HM.
- Ashley Fleming is very knowledgeable and responsive. She is very approachable, down to earth, and pragmatic. Ashley has provided training to the client department and internal legal, which was much appreciated.
- Very approachable, down to earth, pragmatic, and responsive.
- I worked with Ashley Fleming as my lawyer. Throughout the process, she not only provided excellent and accurate expertise, but she also provided excellent customer service by being proactive and responsive. I also had contact with Carlyn McCallum as an assistant, and all dealings with her were excellent. I got the impression that, while I did not speak to many people, there was a team taking care of me, which is exactly what I would expect.
- They provided clear and detailed information before starting the process and provided timely and relevant communication throughout with no need for me to repeat or follow up to chase information or updates.
- The staff are courteous, fast, helpful, and know their stuff about UK immigration matters. I couldn't wish for a better group of people to get legal help from than the wonderful group of individuals at Harper Macleod.
- The team is courteous, helpful, knowledgeable, and goes out of their way to help you with their expertise in legal (immigration) matters. I reckon they're one of the best available in the UK.
- Ashley Fleming and her team stand out for their clarity, consistency, and exceptional level of client engagement. What differentiates them from competitors is their ability to communicate complex immigration matters in a straightforward and accessible way, ensuring that clients are fully informed at every stage. Ashley Fleming is particularly impressive for her exceptional competence, professionalism, and meticulous approach. She combines deep technical expertise with clear, well-reasoned guidance and is consistently responsive and attentive. Her ability to address every interaction with clarity and precision, while remaining highly supportive and available, truly sets her apart. The wider team reflects the same high standards, demonstrating strong coordination, reliability, and a proactive approach to client support. The constant availability, clarity of communication, and attention to detail have been particularly valuable throughout my experience. Overall, an outstanding team distinguished by its expertise, professionalism, communication skills, and unwavering client focus.
- Harper Macleod LLP’s immigration practice is distinguished by its precision, responsiveness, and consistently high standard of client care. The team combines strong technical expertise with clear, pragmatic advice, delivering a seamless and well-managed service even in complex citizenship matters. Ashley Fleming is particularly noteworthy for her professionalism, attention to detail, and clarity of communication. She is meticulous and highly responsive, ensuring that every stage of the process is clearly explained and handled with confidence and care. Her ability to combine technical accuracy with a reassuring, client-focused approach sets her apart. The wider team is equally impressive, demonstrating excellent coordination, efficiency, and reliability. Their structured approach and proactive communication distinguish them from other firms in this space. Overall, an exceptional immigration team, delivering a service defined by expertise, clarity, and client commitment.
Key clients
- City of Edinburgh Council
- Midlothian Council
- Caledonia Housing Association
- Albyn Housing Society Ltd
- Jobs and Business Glasgow LLP
- Perth and Kinross Council
- Orkney Islands Council
Work highlights
Advised the City of Edinburgh Council on the development and drafting of its school enrolment policy for the provision of education to overseas nationals subject to immigration control.
Advised Midlothian Council on their duties and support obligations towards asylum seekers and other individuals with No Recourse to Public Funds.
Advised the City of Edinburgh Council on regularising the immigration status of children in local authority care following a bereavement.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head
Bruce Caldow; Ashley Fleming
Other key lawyers
Elizabeth Basi
