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Adam Cotterill

Senior Associate

Why choose me

With 15 years’ experience in UK immigration law, I am recognised as one of the UK’s leading lawyers in the field. I advise both individuals and organisations on the full breadth of UK immigration, nationality and EU law; with a focus on personal and private client work.

Immigration is an exciting, ever-evolving and challenging area of law, combining my passion for the rights of the individual with solving complex problems which can often intersect with other areas of law, whether that be employment, tax or family law etc.

I am totally committed to achieving positive outcomes for my clients and to client care excellence. I actively engage with government bodies such as the Home Office and at policy level to help anticipate, protect and promote my clients’ interests at both law-making and the decision making stages.

I take a solutions-oriented approach to cases and pride myself on the ability to communicate risk and key concepts in an approachable, professional and reassuring manner.

I work with individuals and families facing complex matters across all immigration routes, as well as assisting entrepreneurs, SMEs, charities and larger companies navigate the rules of immigration.

My specialisms include immigration, EUSS and EU law, human rights, sponsorship and compliance as well as challenging Home Office decisions through reconsideration, judicial review and tribunal proceedings.

Outside work, my passions include politics, community-building, theatre and fitness.

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Contact details

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Teams I work with

With 15 years’ experience in UK immigration law, I am recognised as one of the UK’s leading lawyers in the field. I advise both individuals and organisations on the full breadth of UK immigration, nationality and EU law; with a focus on personal and private client work.

Immigration is an exciting, ever-evolving and challenging area of law, combining my passion for the rights of the individual with solving complex problems which can often intersect with other areas of law, whether that be employment, tax or family law etc.

I am totally committed to achieving positive outcomes for my clients and to client care excellence. I actively engage with government bodies such as the Home Office and at policy level to help anticipate, protect and promote my clients’ interests at both law-making and the decision making stages.

I take a solutions-oriented approach to cases and pride myself on the ability to communicate risk and key concepts in an approachable, professional and reassuring manner.

I work with individuals and families facing complex matters across all immigration routes, as well as assisting entrepreneurs, SMEs, charities and larger companies navigate the rules of immigration.

My specialisms include immigration, EUSS and EU law, human rights, sponsorship and compliance as well as challenging Home Office decisions through reconsideration, judicial review and tribunal proceedings.

Outside work, my passions include politics, community-building, theatre and fitness.

Related services and specialisms from HCR Law

Questions my clients ask me

I try to avoid giving percentages as I don’t think they’re helpful – this will depend on the merits of each case. It is essential to have a lawyer who can competently explain and navigate all the risks on a client’s behalf and effectively advocate their interests.

The Home Office provides guidance on the timescales for each application type. However, in reality these vary; a lawyer’s experience in handling applications will often give a better indication as to the actual timescales involved.

While many applications can be completed without legal assistance, application forms can be misleading and don’t take account of individual circumstances. Answering a single question inaccurately, even if a genuine mistake, can lead to a refusal. If in doubt, take advice. It may be that a more strategic approach is necessary in complex cases.

Read what my clients say about me

Adam Cotterill was incredibly helpful in guiding me and my partner through the process of reapplying for our UK Unmarried Couples visa. After our initial application was rejected, we were extremely stressed and unsure of how to proceed. Adam supported us every step of the way, providing clear advice, reassurance and guidance. Thanks to his expertise, the process felt far more manageable, and we felt confident in our reapplication.

Client testimonial Unmarried Couples visa

Adam Cotterill attention to detail made the experience very comfortable. His written and verbal communication when describing or explaining the legal terminology ensured I had a clear and concise understanding of each process. I would highly recommend him to any future clients requiring immigration law assistance.

Client testimonial Legal 500 2026

Adam Cotterill is very diligent and client-focused. He is keen to find innovative ways of avoiding the stress of litigation for his clients.

Client testimonial Legal 500 2026

HCR initially assisted with a challenging Ancestral Immigration/Citizenship query. The individuals involved were able to thoroughly and extensively review historical policies and legislation. Their collaboration as a team (including me throughout the process) provided confidence for me to proceed (along with their continued support) with the UK Citizenship application.

Client testimonial Legal 500 2026

I can only commend Adam on the service he provided, his attention-to-detail, along with his professional yet personal nature made the experience very comfortable. His written and verbal communications when describing or explaining the legal terminology ensured I had a clear and concise understanding of each process.

Client testimonial Legal 500 2026

I couldn’t be more grateful to Adam for guiding me through my naturalisation process. From our very first call he was always responsive, friendly, and deeply knowledgeable. He handled every detail – from clearly explaining each step to remembering and booking all necessary appointments – with the utmost professionalism and care. Thanks to his support, I felt confident and well prepared at every stage. I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking expert, compassionate legal assistance.

Client testimonial Employment & Immigration

Awards and endorsements

ILPA Member

ILPA Member

Legal 500 2026 – Recommended Lawyer

Legal 500 2026 – Recommended Lawyer

Legal updates and thought leadership

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