Wave of Threats Against UK Immigration Lawyers Amid Toxic Anti-Immigration Rhetoric

In recent days, immigration lawyers across the UK have found themselves at the center of a troubling wave of online harassment and physical threats, ignited by a notorious Telegram group that emerged following the Southport attack. The group, which has rapidly gained traction—amassing nearly 15,000 members—has shared a list of immigration lawyers while promoting an alarming anti-immigration narrative under the slogan "no more immigration." This has resulted in a climate of fear among those who advocate for migrants and refugees, with many lawyers reporting harassment and threats. The backlash appears to stem from a false rumor suggesting that the suspect in the Southport incident was an asylum seeker. This misinformation has fueled unrest in several UK towns and cities, leading to protests and disturbances. In the face of these challenges, several immigration lawyers have reported receiving menacing messages, with one lawyer revealing to the BBC that she had been forced to take her website offline and cancel in-person appointments due to the threats she faced. "I started getting the messages: 'You're on a hitlist,'" she recounted, illustrating the severity of the situation. "I'm a migrant. I've come here and tried to integrate; I've built my business and raised my family. I'm just trying to do my job." Her determination to continue serving her clients underscores the resilience many lawyers are displaying in the face of intimidation. Another lawyer from the North East expressed similar fears, indicating that he had to close his office amid concerns for safety. "I am worried. I'm not angry," he stated. "I am not the enemy. They have a right to protest but I would request for them to do it in a peaceful way." His reflections highlight the difficult position many legal professionals find themselves in as they navigate the fine line between their commitment to their clients and their personal safety. The Law Society has stepped in to support the affected solicitors, calling attention to the very real risks posed by the circulation of their names and addresses on social media. Society president Nick Emmerson affirmed that this situation is particularly alarming, given the long history of immigration lawyers facing hostility for simply doing their jobs. "There is a real and specific threat to named firms," he noted, emphasizing the precarious environment in which these lawyers are operating. In response to the rising tensions, police forces have begun mobilizing significant resources, with nearly 6,000 public order officers being deployed to maintain peace during planned protests. The Metropolitan Police have acknowledged the potential for disorder linked to "hateful and divisive groups" and have vowed to use all available means to prevent further unrest. As the situation continues to evolve, the futures of these immigration lawyers—who are essential advocates for vulnerable communities—remain uncertain. They face a dual challenge: navigating a hostile public environment while striving to uphold the rights and dignity of those they serve. The legal community, civil rights advocates, and concerned citizens alike are watching closely as this story unfolds, hoping for a return to civility and a recognition of the valuable role that immigration lawyers play in society.