If you think that a public body has made an unlawful decision it is important that you seek legal advice as soon as possible.
Public Law
Our lives are affected by decisions made by public bodies. Some examples of public bodies are government ministries, local authorities, some housing associations, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), the police, the Parole Board, NHS trusts, Ombudsman, a school or university.
Expert Public Law Solicitors
At GT Stewart, our expert Public Law Solicitors provide specialist advice and representation in matters where decisions by public bodies impact individuals’ rights and entitlements. We regularly assist clients challenging decisions made by local authorities, government departments, regulators, and other state bodies.
Our team has in-depth knowledge of the principles of public law, including judicial review, statutory interpretation, and procedural fairness. We help clients understand whether a decision is unlawful, irrational, or procedurally unfair, and advise on the most appropriate route to challenge it.
Experienced Public Law Lawyers
Our experienced Public Law Lawyers combine legal expertise with practical experience to deliver strong and effective representation throughout the life of a challenge. We work closely with clients from the initial instruction through to evidence gathering, pre-action correspondence, and, where necessary, issuing proceedings in the Administrative Court.
We are skilled in handling judicial review applications, statutory challenges, and related public law remedies, ensuring that procedural requirements are met and arguments are presented effectively. Our approach is client-focused — we take time to understand each person’s circumstances so we can tailor our strategy and support you at every stage of the public law process.
Public Law
In carrying out their functions, public bodies must act in accordance with the law. This means that in reaching their decisions, public bodies must act according to public law principles. According to public law principles, public bodies must follow the proper procedure, act rationally and act within the limits of the power which has been given to them by Parliament in the laws that are passed.
Where a public body has not reached a decision according to public law principles then that decision may be unlawful. The way to challenge an unlawful decision by a public body is through a procedure known as judicial review.
A claim for judicial review is made in the High Court. The High Court looks at the way the decision has been made to determine whether it is unlawful or not.
If you think that a public body has made an unlawful decision it is important that you seek legal advice as soon as possible. There is a strict time limit of 3 months in which to bring a claim for judicial review. If the claim is not brought within 3 months then you will have to show the Court why you missed the deadline.
Our team of specialist lawyers has experience in advising and representing individuals in a broad range of public law matters. Some examples of these are:
- Housing allocation schemes of local authorities;
- Planning and regeneration schemes of local areas without proper consultation of the local community;
- Decisions by the Home Office in relation to victims of human trafficking;
- Decisions by the Parole Board;
- Decisions by the police in relation to decisions both to prosecute and failure to prosecute or where the proper procedure in relation to arrest and caution has not been followed;
- Unlawful immigration detention
- Decisions or omissions by schools, universities or local authorities that adversely effect the education of children, young people and adults
We have a real passion for social justice and tenaciously defend our clients. This is reflected in our tireless efforts to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients who are often vulnerable.
Funding your case
Legal Aid is available for a range of civil work. To qualify for Legal Aid we will carry out an assessment of your income and capital as well as the prospects of success of your case. The Legal Aid Agency provides an online calculator which you can assess direct to determine whether you may be eligible. We will help you through the Legal Aid Application process and if you are not eligible for free legal advice, we can provide a number of other funding options including:
Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA)
Fixed fee/staged payments
Hourly rate private fee scheme
Why choose GT Stewart?
We understand that challenging a public body can feel daunting. Our team provides clear, strategic advice from the outset, ensuring you understand your options, the potential risks, and the likely outcomes before any action is taken.
With extensive experience in judicial review and public law challenges, we are committed to holding decision-makers accountable and securing lawful, fair outcomes for our clients.
Our Expert Lawyers are ready to Help
GT Stewart has established itself as a leading firm in the UK, specialising in both private cases and also Legal Aid work.
Meet some of our Public Law team
Speak to one of our Public Law Solicitors
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Client Testimonials
"Harry Charalambous and his dedicated team, Louise and Harry Pell, provided exceptional representation throughout my case, in which I faced a multitude of serious allegations. From the outset, they meticulously explained my options and guided me through every stage of the process. Their expertise and strategic approach ultimately led to my case being dropped before it even reached trial. During such a challenging and uncertain period, it would have been easy to lose hope. However, their unwavering commitment, support, and determination to prove my innocence gave me the confidence to keep fighting and persevere through one of the most difficult times in my life. What truly sets this team apart is their prompt communication, extensive knowledge, and carefully considered legal strategy, all of which contributed to achieving the best possible outcome. Harry Charalambous is a leading figure in criminal law, and I have no hesitation in recommending his services to anyone in need of expert legal representation. I am sincerely grateful for the hard work, dedication, and professionalism shown throughout my case. Thank you to the entire team for always being available to address my concerns and answer any questions I had along the way."
“I’ve worked with GT Stewart since 2014 in relation to matters involving my brother. Over that time, I’ve dealt mainly with Rebecca Hill and, more recently, Tahmina Islam. Having that continuity has been invaluable. They know my brother, they know our family and they understand the history of the case, which means we haven’t had to start from scratch every few years. I’ve always found them professional, passionate and easy to deal with. When I’ve needed advice or had concerns, they’ve been available and have taken the time to understand what matters to us. Acting as my brother’s litigation friend comes with a huge responsibility and I have always felt that he has been well represented. The fact that I’ve continued to return to GT Stewart over the last 12 years probably says more than anything else I could write. I trust them to do right by my brother.”
"Ghazala Parveen was thoroughly professional and very supportive throughout the process of our parole application. Her experience meant that a lot of the stress was taken away from us."
"I just wanted to say a huge thank you [Nick] for everything you have done for D and his case - I truly don’t think we would have had this outcome with anyone else. As soon as the case was with you it felt like a weight was lifted and all the things we were fighting for since the beginning came to light. D is doing so much better & hopefully things will only go up from here - myself and D's family are all so grateful for yours and Madeline’s work."
"You have been fantastic [Atia] - no issues whatsoever, fast responses, kept me up to date and handled every situation perfectly. Would/will use the firm for all future conveyancing. Thank you very much."