The timeline from appeal to hearing

You register your appeal with the Tribunal (deadline usually 2 months from the LA's decision). The Tribunal sends you a case statement deadline (usually 6-8 weeks). You submit your case statement and evidence bundle. There may be case management directions (the Tribunal may ask for specific information or restrict document length). A hearing date is set (usually 4-6 months from registration). Hearings typically last half a day to a full day. The panel deliberates and issues a decision (within a few weeks of the hearing, sometimes longer).

Preparing your case statement

Your case statement explains why you're appealing: what decision the LA made, why you disagree, and what outcome you're asking for. It should reference relevant legislation and the evidence that supports your case. Keep it concise (usually 5-10 pages) and focussed. State clearly what you're asking the Tribunal to order: "We appeal the LA's refusal to assess. We request the Tribunal order the LA to carry out an EHCP assessment." Be specific about what you want - not "we want more support" but "we request the named school be [Specific School], not [LA School]."

Building your evidence bundle

Your evidence bundle is everything: all correspondence with the LA (in chronological order), professional reports (EP, SALT, OT, CAMHS, paediatrician - in date order), school records (latest reports, progress data, IEPs, attendance records), medical records (diagnoses, letters from doctors), your parental statement, any independent reports you've obtained, and documents showing the child's needs. Organise chronologically with a clear index. Number every page. Keep copies of everything - the panel will have bundles too, but you need your own for reference.

What to present on hearing day

Hearings can be in person or remote (Tribunal allowed remote hearings during COVID and many continue). You don't need a lawyer - many parents represent themselves successfully. You'll be asked to give evidence about your child and your case. The panel (judge + two specialist members) will ask questions. The LA will also present evidence and may challenge yours. You get to question LA evidence. Keep answers clear and honest - the panel can tell if you're being evasive. Bring your evidence bundle and any notes you've prepared.

Getting help

You can bring someone to Tribunal to support you (not necessarily a lawyer) - a friend, family member, or SEND adviser. IPSEA can provide adviser support. Some people bring lawyers (usually for complex cases). The Tribunal is designed for parents to represent themselves - many do. What matters is having strong evidence and being clear about what you want. Practice your evidence, anticipate LA arguments, and prepare your questions for LA witnesses.