Quote Originally Posted by LadyJ View Post
I have a couple of story to share to you John,

A friend of mine who was overstayed her visa for more than 5 years.
She got married here in UK to a British man.
They applied a settlement visa but it was refused and the Home Office wanted her to go back to Phils to apply from there.
She refused to go back home.
Her case was brought to court versus Home Office.
They spent a lot of money worth more than £15,000 for fees ie. solicitor fees etc.
It took them many months probably years fighting for what they wanted.
But in the end she was granted a settlement visa

Another friend of mine was overstayed 5 yrs, they got married here in UK and had children. One day 4x policemen came to her house to arrest her, because someone had tip the police off that she was here illegaly, luckily she have already applied for settlement visa so the policemen didn't take her.
Her application was refused and the H.O. wanted her to leave UK asap and apply visa from her country.
She voluntary went home with her husband and children, while they're waiting for the result, they went to visit many places in Phils like holiday.
Just near after 3 months they submit the application, they've received her spouse visa without interview and they're now happily living together in UK.
Some good news from lady J

But the money avaiable and resources as you say need to be almost unlimited. As no one can say it will cost x amount or how long. Law firms from my day to day personal experience are one of the trades doing well out of the current situation so fees unlikely either

I would also be aware if it comes to the Customs and excise attetnion that your Mahal has een paid cash in hand you may also end up with a tax bill.

Hop on a plane and oh whoops my Passport the maid washed by accident is my suggestion for what its worth