Appeal an education, health and care (EHC) plan decision
What happens at the hearing
The tribunal will hold the hearing via video link or at a venue within 2 hours of your home. You do not have to go, but if you do you can ask questions and present the case yourself.
If you or your witness or representative is outside the UK and wants to give live video or audio evidence, contact the tribunal to request it. Tell the tribunal what country you, the witness or representative is in and what type of evidence is being given. You must do this as soon as possible.
You can ask to have an interpreter at the hearing. They’ll translate what happens but they cannot represent you or give you legal advice.
Let the tribunal know if you’ll need any other reasonable adjustments to take part in the hearing, such as hearing loops or disabled access.
You might be asked questions by:
- your legal representative (if you have one)
- the local authority’s representative
- the tribunal
You’ll usually get the tribunal’s decision by letter or email within 10 working days of the hearing.
Who’ll be at the hearing
The hearing will usually be attended by:
- a judge and 1 or 2 other tribunal members
- a clerk
- someone representing the local authority
- expert witnesses
If you’re a parent who wants to attend, you must fill in an attendance form if you want to bring:
- someone to represent you
- someone to support you
- any witnesses
If you’re appealing as a young person, both of your parents can come to the hearing as well as a representative.
Claim expenses
You might be able to claim travel expenses for going to the hearing.
Your witnesses might also be able to claim expenses for travel and loss of earnings.
If you bring a friend or relative to the hearing, you might also be able to claim for their travel costs. You’ll be sent a form to make the claim.