Upper Tribunal Appeals UK: AAC Forms & Process

Overview

The Administrative Appeals Chamber is one of four chambers that make up the Upper Tribunal in the UK. Its role is to act as an appellate court for decisions made by lower tribunals and a range of public bodies. Typical areas within its remit include social security and child support rulings, decisions from the Mental Health Tribunal, certain criminal injuries compensation appeals, war pension and armed forces compensation matters, and some immigration support cases.

Because the Upper Tribunal is a superior court of record, its judges can set binding precedent, and their decisions shape how lower tribunals interpret the law in future cases. Crucially, an appeal to the AAC is normally limited to points of law.

That means you cannot simply ask the Upper Tribunal to look again at the evidence and reach a different conclusion. You need to identify something the First-tier Tribunal got wrong legally, procedurally, or in the way it explained its reasoning. Understanding that distinction is often the hardest part for people bringing their own appeal.

Key steps

1. Request the written statement of reasons. Once the First-tier Tribunal has given its decision, ask for a full written statement setting out the reasons behind it. This document is essential because it lets you pinpoint any legal or procedural errors. The request must generally be made within one month of the decision notice, although extensions can sometimes be granted in limited circumstances.
2. Apply for permission to appeal from the First-tier Tribunal. Before you can go to the Upper Tribunal, you must first ask the First-tier Tribunal judge for permission to appeal. This application should set out clearly why you believe the decision contains an error of law. You normally have one month from being sent the written statement of reasons to make this application.
3. Apply directly to the Upper Tribunal if permission is refused. If the First-tier Tribunal turns down your permission application, you are not necessarily out of options. You can apply again, this time directly to the Upper Tribunal itself, using the appropriate application form. Again, strict time limits apply, usually one month from the date permission was refused, so do not delay.
4. Complete and submit the appropriate AAC form. Use the correct Upper Tribunal form for your type of appeal, setting out your grounds in a clear and structured way. Attach the First-tier Tribunal's decision, the statement of reasons, and any refusal of permission. Make sure you keep copies of everything you send, and post the papers to the address given on the form.
5. Prepare for the Upper Tribunal's consideration. Once your appeal is lodged, an Upper Tribunal judge will review whether permission should be granted and, if so, whether the appeal succeeds. Some matters are decided on the papers alone, while others proceed to an oral hearing. You may be asked to provide further submissions, so keep an eye on post and respond promptly to any directions.