Our team work incredibly hard to support the most vulnerable asylum seekers, refugees and migrants, and Laura in particular has for the past 16 years fought for the rights of migrants and asylum seekers whom others have given up on: from bringing to safety a neglected group of Tamils detained in appalling conditions on Diego Garcia, to reuniting families long separated by borders, to helping hundreds of people access justice and regularise their status in the UK, and supporting clients to speak out in public, Laura is an outstanding legal mind, a fearless advocate, and a deeply principled professional.
Laura Smith Wins Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Award 2025
We have some amazing news! On Friday our Co-Legal Director, Laura Smith, won the Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year award for Immigration and Asylum, a prestigious award that celebrates of the work of lawyers on the social justice frontline, and recognises not just her hard work and skill in litigation but her compassion and dedication to her clients’ wellbeing.
E E, JCWI ClientI spoke to Laura on an advice line. I was about to lose my asylum accommodation, and I was hearing voices. She told me to come straight to her office, and that afternoon sorted my accommodation, helped me pay for a prescription and is now working on my appeal. I would like to take a moment to express my deepest and most sincere gratitude — first to God Almighty, and then to you, Laura. From the very first phone call with… you listened patiently to my testimony with kindness and urgency... Laura, you are truly remarkable — gentle, compassionate, and selfless. You never complain, always speak softly, and consistently go out of your way to help others.
Diego Garcia Survivor, Client of JCWIShe is a major reason we all are here now (UK). She has worked so hard for us over the past three years. She is very strong and support with us. Laura stayed with us on the island we lived on for ten days and worked very hard to get us off that island. Our children are very happy now because they breath freedom fresh air. You are our only hope. Thanks to Laura Smith.