ABSTRACT
A tribunal, like a court of law, is a forum in which disputes are settled by an impartial adjudicator. A network, or system, of tribunals – each focusing on a particular area of law – forms part of the civil justice system and represents an important part of administrative law. Historically tribunals were operated by the government Department which had undertaken the decision being challenged by the citizen. As government became more complex and the level of administration grew, tribunals could be used to dispense quick and effective justice outside the court system. Tribunals include Agriculture, Aviation, Data Protection, Education, Employment, Fair Trading, Financial Services, Foreign Compensation, Immigration, Land, Misuse of Drugs, National Health Service, Pensions, Property and Taxation. Many of the recommendations were implemented in the Tribunals and Inquiries Act 1958. Legal representation is generally permitted, but, with the exception of certain tribunals, state-funded legal assistance is not available to meet the costs of representation.
