ARTG8552 - First - tier and Upper Tribunals: Preparing for tribunal: Groups of related cases: Consolidation of cases
Where there are a relatively small number of cases raising related issues, see ARTG8551, the tribunal may make a direction that the cases are consolidated or heard together (rule 5(3)(b) of the tribunal rules).
As with any other direction, see ARTG8500, either party can apply to the tribunal for a direction or the tribunal may make a direction on its own initiative.
Each case will be determined by the tribunal, and so each party will be bound by the outcome as if it were a decision which applied to them alone. Each party will have a right of appeal against the decision.
The following pages relating to groups of cases (ARTG8553 - ARTG8580), are not relevant for consolidated cases. Decision makers, review officers and litigators should refer to the appropriate guidance within ARTG as if the disputed decision related to that case alone.