Salford Business School’s Law Lecturer, Sean Ell, has enjoyed a highly successful legal career. Specialising in immigration law, he headed the immigration team at Keoghs, Nicholls, Lindsell & Harris Solicitors before progressing to become a barrister at Garden Court North Chambers in Manchester.
We recently caught up with Sean to find out more about his career, his time at the University of Salford and his work with the SILKS clinic.
How did you get into academia as a career path?
After completing my own studies, I spent 20 years working in the legal profession in the North of England, having the opportunity to work in a law centre, qualify as a solicitor, and later became a barrister. I have been at the Bar for over 10 years.
I joined the University as a lecturer with a focus on the law clinic that the University offers (SILKS). Alongside my teaching, I also work as one of the qualified lawyers in the clinic.
Why did you choose to work at the University of Salford?
The role really appealed to me as it combines academic teaching with real-world legal practice. I work with students in the classroom, but also in the clinic, where we provide legal advice to members of the public who may otherwise be unable to access it. For example, we support students involved in housing disputes with their landlords.
What drew me to the University was the opportunity to not only teach legal knowledge, but also help students develop the professional skills they’ll need for a career in practice.
What’s the best thing about being an academic at Salford?
I’m lucky to work with some wonderful people, who have made the transition into teaching easier for me. It is great to be able to have discussions with colleagues who have a real depth of knowledge of the law and who share a real desire to see our students succeed not just in their studies but also out in the world of work.
Can you tell us about any of your career highlights to-date?
A standout moment at the University was watching the final of the Mooting competition, which took place at the Supreme Court earlier this year and was judged by Lord Hamblen. Hearing such positive feedback about our students was a proud moment and a testament to all the hard work they had put in.
In practice, I’ve appeared in a range of cases over the years, including in the High Court and the Court of Appeal. I’ve also been appointed as a Legally Qualified Chair at the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service, determining fitness to practice cases brought by the General Medical Council against Doctors.
What’s your current research focused on?
I have a background and an interest in immigration and asylum law. I have a particular interest in matters relating to British nationality law. In the clinic, I focus on housing and employment matters.
Do you have any published papers we can read?
My book, “A practical guide to deprivation of British citizenship,” is available to read and considers the law relating to deprivation of British citizenship following a number of high-profile legal decisions, including the ones in respect of Shamima Begum.
And finally, the all important question, where in Manchester or Salford is best to grab a coffee?
Personally, I am a tea drinker. However, when meeting people who do drink coffee, I suggest the Old Fire Station. There’s never any complaint about the quality of the coffee or the food there.