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Practice area

Judicial Review

Judicial review is the court process for challenging the lawfulness of a decision, action or failure to act by a public body, regulator or lower court. We act for individuals and businesses through every stage of the procedure.

We advise on the three established grounds of judicial review — illegality, irrationality and procedural impropriety — together with breaches of the Human Rights Act 1998 and retained EU principles.

Our work covers immigration and asylum judicial reviews, planning and licensing decisions, regulator action, prison and parole decisions, NHS and education decisions, and challenges to statutory guidance and policy.

Strict pre-action time limits apply (usually three months from the decision, and sooner in some categories such as planning). We move quickly to issue pre-action correspondence and, where necessary, lodge urgent applications for interim relief.

How we can help

  • Immigration & asylum judicial review
  • Planning & licensing challenges
  • Regulator decision challenges
  • Education & NHS decisions
  • Prison & parole decisions
  • Pre-action protocol letters
  • Urgent interim relief & injunctions
  • Substantive hearings & appeals

Our process

  1. 1

    Initial consultation

    Confidential discussion of your matter, the documents available and any time-critical deadlines that apply.

  2. 2

    Strategy & costs

    A clear written assessment of your options, realistic prospects and a stage-by-stage costs estimate so you can decide how to proceed.

  3. 3

    Active progression

    We carry out the agreed work — drafting, correspondence, negotiation or court proceedings — keeping you fully informed at each stage.

  4. 4

    Resolution

    We secure the best available outcome and advise on any next steps, enforcement or follow-on work required.

Discuss your matter in confidence

Every case starts with a conversation. Speak directly with one of our solicitors and we will explain the options available to you.

Frequently asked questions

What is the time limit for judicial review?
Generally three months from the date of the decision, and "promptly" in any event. Planning and procurement decisions have shorter limits — six weeks and 30 days respectively.
What remedies can the court grant?
The court can quash the decision, order the public body to act or stop acting, declare the law, and in limited cases award damages. Most successful claims result in the decision being retaken lawfully.
Can I get legal aid for judicial review?
Legal aid may be available for some judicial review work, subject to merits and means tests. We will discuss funding options at the outset of your matter.

Have a different question? Contact our team for confidential advice tailored to your circumstances.