When you can make a challenge

You may be able to challenge the result of an election if you think it was not run properly, for example the votes were not counted correctly or a candidate broke the law.

You can challenge a UK Parliament election if either of the following apply:

  • you had the right to vote in it
  • you were a candidate

You can challenge a local government election if either:

  • you’re part of a group of at least 4 people who had the right to vote in the election
  • you were a candidate

The deadline

You must usually apply within 21 days of when:

  • the result of the UK Parliament election was returned to the Clerk of the Crown in Chancery
  • the local government election was held

A judge might let you apply after 21 days if:

  • you think there have been corrupt or illegal practices, for example bribery
  • your complaint is about election expenses, for example you think the winner spent more than they were allowed