The impact of negative rhetoric on immigration lawyers: a call for compassion and support

In this edition, Samia Yaqub looks at how negative rhetoric is affecting the mental health of immigration lawyers. Many face high stress, burnout, and even threats due to public scrutiny and political debate. With growing pressure across asylum, personal, and corporate immigration law, support is needed more than ever. Samia highlights why better mental health support and workplace protections are needed, alongside a shift in the narrative to recognise the vital role immigration lawyers play in justice and society.

Immigration law is one of the most complex and high-stakes areas of legal practice. Whether working in asylum, personal, or corporate immigration, lawyers in this field navigate a challenging landscape shaped by shifting policies, legal uncertainty, and intense public scrutiny.

In recent years, negative rhetoric surrounding immigration, driven by political discourse, media coverage, far-right narratives, and even interference from abroad, has not only influenced public opinion but has also had a profound impact on the wellbeing of immigration lawyers. The profession has become a focal point in divisive debates, with legal professionals often unfairly portrayed as either obstructing the system or enabling wrongdoing. This growing hostility contributes to stress, anxiety, and burnout among those working in immigration law, at a time when their expertise is needed more than ever.

The weight of negative narratives and foreign interference

Public and political discourse around immigration has become increasingly polarised. In asylum and refugee law, lawyers face accusations of defending those who “exploit the system,” while in corporate immigration, they must battle perceptions that foreign talent is taking jobs from local workers. These narratives are often fuelled by misinformation, disregarding the crucial role that immigration plays in both human rights and economic growth.

Beyond domestic politics, external forces have also played a role in shaping anti-immigration sentiment. There is growing evidence that foreign actors have sought to inflame immigration debates, particularly in Western democracies. False narratives spread through social media, amplifying fears of mass migration, and framing immigration lawyers as part of an elite conspiracy working against national interests. These tactics are designed to weaken social cohesion, influence elections, and undermine public trust in institutions, including the legal system.

For professionals working on asylum and human rights cases, the emotional toll can be immense. The 2024 riots highlighted the intensity of public sentiment, with some lawyers facing harassment, threats, and online abuse. Many professionals were vilified simply for ensuring due process and upholding legal protections. This hostility has left many feeling isolated, with some reconsidering their future in the field altogether.

However, the riots also demonstrated that legal professionals will not stand by silently. The Law Society of England and Wales and the Bar Council of England and Wales?took a firm stance, condemning attacks on lawyers and reaffirming that no one is beyond the rule of law. Statements from leading legal bodies made it clear that lawyers must be free to carry out their work without fear or intimidation. This kind of public support is crucial in countering negative rhetoric, both domestic and foreign, and must continue with stronger protections for those working in immigration law.

Beyond asylum: The challenges of personal and corporate immigration

Challenges exist beyond asylum work. In personal and corporate immigration, lawyers are grappling with the fallout of labour shortages, restrictive policies, and economic uncertainty. Businesses rely on skilled migration to fill gaps in key sectors, yet the public debate often overlooks the economic benefits of a well-managed immigration system. Lawyers in this space must constantly navigate shifting visa rules, compliance challenges, and political pressures that create uncertainty for both businesses and individuals.

International students have also been caught in this rhetoric. Yet, international students contribute billions to the economy and play a crucial role in research, innovation, and the workforce.

Judiciary, courts, and the struggles of a failing system beyond legal practitioners

The immigration system as a whole is under immense strain. Courts and tribunals handling immigration cases are overwhelmed, leading to significant delays and backlogs. Judges and tribunal members have also face pressure, as media outlets actively undermine judicial independence by publicly criticising decisions that favour migrants. The digitisation of the immigration system, while intended to improve efficiency, has created additional barriers, particularly for vulnerable applicants who struggle with technology.

The human cost: stress, burnout, and career shifts

The strain of working in such a charged environment is driving many legal professionals away from immigration law. Burnout is a growing concern, as lawyers manage heavy caseloads, emotionally challenging cases, and increasing hostility towards their work. The pressure of fighting legal battles against an ever-changing policy backdrop, coupled with public criticism, can take a significant toll on mental health.

Some have chosen to leave asylum and human rights law in search of less emotionally draining roles, moving into corporate and personal immigration. However, while these areas may lack the direct emotional weight of asylum cases, they come with their own challenges. Businesses seeking to sponsor skilled workers often face complex and restrictive rules, while lawyers must navigate evolving regulations that impact workforce planning and economic growth. The UK’s skills shortages highlight the need for a balanced, practical immigration policy, yet the public debate remains largely focused on restriction rather than opportunity.

Female and junior immigration lawyers face unique challenges. Studies have shown those in high-pressure legal roles often experience higher rates of stress and burnout. The lack of support structures and mentorship opportunities within the profession exacerbates these challenges, making retention even more difficult.

The need for support, reform, and a balanced narrative

Despite these difficulties, there are organisations stepping up to provide much-needed support. LawCare, for instance, offers vital mental health resources, helping legal professionals manage stress, anxiety, and burnout. The Immigration Law Practitioners' Association (ILPA) and the Refugee Council, among many others, have also played a crucial role in advocating for immigration lawyers and ensuring they have access to resources and support systems. Peer networks have become an essential space for legal professionals to share experiences, seek guidance, and find solidarity in an increasingly hostile environment. The work of organisations such as the Bar Human Rights Committee of England and Wales and the Human Rights Lawyers Association provide invaluable support. Their efforts are essential in fostering a supportive environment and improving retention within the sector.

However, more needs to be done. Law firms must prioritise mental health support, offering access to counselling services, mentorship programmes, and resilience training to help lawyers manage the pressures of their work. Creating safe spaces for open discussions about wellbeing and professional challenges can also foster a stronger, more supportive legal community.

Beyond internal support, the wider conversation around immigration must change. The legal profession, business leaders, and policymakers must work together to shift the narrative from fear and restriction to balance and opportunity. Public discussions should acknowledge the economic benefits of skilled migration, the essential protections that legal professionals uphold, and the need for a fair, well-functioning immigration system that supports both businesses and individuals.

Conclusion: A call for compassion and recognition

Immigration lawyers play an essential role in ensuring justice, fairness, and economic stability, yet they are increasingly working in an environment of hostility and division. Whether advocating for asylum seekers, assisting businesses with skilled worker sponsorships, or supporting students and families, these professionals face growing pressure and uncertainty. If we allow negative rhetoric and burnout to drive talent away from this field, the consequences will be felt not only by lawyers but by society as a whole.

It is time for greater recognition and support for those working in immigration law. Law firms must take mental health seriously, peer networks must continue fostering resilience, and public discourse must move beyond divisive narratives. Immigration is not just a political talking point, it is a vital part of our society, our economy, and our commitment to justice.

As the legal profession demonstrated during the 2024 riots, it must continue to stand firm: No lawyer should face threats for doing their job, and no one is beyond the rule of law.

Now more than ever, we must stand by those who ensure that legal rights and economic opportunities remain accessible to all.

"Lawyers who stand up for the rights of the vulnerable are not the enemy; they are the guardians of justice in a civilised society." Baroness Helena Kennedy

Samia Yaqub is a Legal 500 Recommended UK Immigration & Nationality Lawyer, Certified Legal Project Practitioner, and advocate for wellbeing, DEI, and professional growth. A dedicated mentor, she combines legal expertise with a passion for empowering others and fostering inclusive environments.

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