Judicial Review

Judicial Review, also known as public or administrative law, refers to the function of the Court in "reviewing" the acts of mainly central and local Government bodies.  For example, if you have been subject to a decision of the local Planning Authority or the NHS which you believe is wrong, Judicial Review exists as a mechanism by which to seek redress.

In recent years, the introduction of the Human Rights Act has contributed (sometimes controversially) to the types of cases that are appropriate for Judicial Review.  Notable examples that generate publicity include immigration and asylum matters where decisions of the various Tribunals involved are often scrutinised.  However, the remedy of Judicial Review is not limited to strictly governmental bodies, and can include the commercial world where sometimes private organisations act in a way similar to Government organisations.

Most Judicial Review cases are heard in the Administrative Court in London.  At Pardoes we have considerable experience in this field, having pursued a number of cases involving the responsibility of Local Government to meet elderly clients' nursing home fees.  We have also dealt with disputes involving Custom & Excise Tribunals, Mental Health Tribunals, and Local Education Authorities.  Public Funding is sometimes available for Judicial Review cases depending on the nature of the claim and the applicant's circumstances.

Contact Rick Fitzgerald for further information.