Individual SEN Tribunal Support

Appeals to the SEN Tribunal are rapidly on the increase, which local authorities are struggling to manage and defend. 99% of parental appeals are successful. Local authorities require expert legal support and advice to respond to them. We have considerable experience managing SEN Tribunal appeals from start to finish and are able to offer this support on an individually commissioned basis.  

If our SEN Tribunal Casework Package is not required, we can still provide support for SEN Tribunal appeals on an individually commissioned basis.

Thus, if you are experiencing a sharp increase in appeals, we can help to provide you with additional capacity and resources whilst you explore a longer term solution. This is a much better solution than hiring an SEN Locum Solicitor because our services are immediately available, are competitively priced and come with a fully resourced back office.

THE SUPPORT WE PROVIDE

When instructed we will provide you with the following support:

  • Initial advice on the merits of the appeal.
  • Attendance at case planning meeting with SEN Officers to discuss the case and what evidence is required.
  • Drafting and preparation of documents, including case statements and witness statements.
  • Liaising with SEN Officers on the conduct of the appeal and the preparation of evidence – i.e. the preparation of expert reports and reports from school.
  • Liaising with parental representatives in respect of the appeal.
  • Preparation of the Council’s evidence.
  • Preparation and circulation of the Tribunal bundle.
  • Pre-Tribunal meeting with witnesses.
  • Representation at the hearing.
  • Post hearing written review.
  • All travel and expenses.

COSTS

We offer a fixed fee of £5,500 (+VAT) per appeal.

If the case settles before a final hearing then you will only pay for the work that has been undertaken, which means that in all cases local authorities can budget for the defence of appeals without unexpected costs being incurred.