Nicola Tiffen on Exposing Visa Scams in London

Episode Seven

Your host for this episode is Sophie Svenson and Luke Campbell.

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Nicola Tiffin is a trailblazer in immigration law and partner at a major New Zealand law firm, Duncan Cotterill. Recently recognized by NZ Lawyer’s 2023 list of 26 ‘Most Influential Lawyers’, Nicola has over 20 years of experience and leads Duncan Cotterill’s national immigration team across five offices.

Join us as Nicola recounts her transition from a small-town upbringing to studying law and politics at the University of Canterbury. Nicola's tale takes an unexpected turn when she relocates to London at the urging of her best friend, embarking on a career that lands her in the realm of immigration law. The narrative takes a riveting twist when Nicola uncovers a shocking scandal involving forged work visas within her London firm. We explore the challenges she faced in taking over the practice and supporting impacted clients, a pivotal moment that shaped her resilience and risk-taking attitude in her later career.

Returning to New Zealand, Nicola's story unfolds against the backdrop of significant events, including the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes, where Nicola played a crucial role in assisting immigration clients amidst the chaos.

From supporting clients after the Christchurch mosque shootings to navigating the complexities of immigration law during the COVID-19 pandemic, Nicola's story is one of determination, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to her clients.

Nicola shares insights into overcoming challenges and self-doubt, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and resilience. Join us for an engaging conversation, offering valuable advice for aspiring legal professionals and shedding light on the ongoing gender imbalance in law firms.

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