HMCTS who's who: Social Security and Child Support Tribunal
An explanation of the people who may be present in a social security and child support tribunal hearing.
The appellant
The appellant is usually a person who disputes a decision about their claim for a benefit, made by a government agency (most commonly the Department for Work and Pensions).
The representative
A representative is a person who attends a hearing to advise the appellant or the other party, and help them present their case. A representative might be a friend or relative, a person who is legally qualified or professionally trained or from a welfare rights organisation or advice centre.
The other party
If a person other than the appellant has an interest in the outcome of an appeal, they may attend the hearing. For example, the appellant’s ex-partner in a child support case, or the landlord in a housing benefit appeal.
The presenting officer
The presenting officer is a person representing the office or agency that made the decision under dispute (most commonly the Department for Work and Pensions).
The tribunal panel
An appeal is decided by a judge sitting alone or by a tribunal panel of up to three people. The tribunal is always chaired by a legally qualified tribunal judge, appointed by the Senior President of Tribunals. Sometimes the panel may include a doctor or a person with experience in disability issues. The judge or panel members will make sure they understand and are able to give the relevant evidence.
The clerk to the tribunal
The clerk will show people where to sit in the hearing room. The clerk will stay in the room during the hearing.
The public/media
Please note that most hearings are open to the public and, although uncommon, the media/press and public can attend hearings.
Please note this is a representation only – the people in the room may be different. Not all courts look exactly alike.