Once you submit your appeal, the SEND tribunal registers it. This means your case is now officially open, and you will receive important deadlines and your hearing date.
This stage sets the timetable for your entire appeal and explains what you must do next. Staying on top of communication and being organised is essential from this point forwards.
What happens - step-by-step
After you submit your appeal
- you’ll receive an automatic confirmation email
- the tribunal reviews your paperwork and registers your appeal
- you’ll receive a registration letter with key information including:
- your hearing date
- LA response deadline
- evidence deadlines
Ongoing communication
- you must respond promptly to any tribunal emails
- all communication must also be copied to the local authority
- you can use the case review form to:
- update the tribunal
- confirm who will attend your hearing
- request adjustments
Request for change form
Use this if you need to:
- request an extension to a deadline
- add or change witnesses
- submit late evidence
- request reasonable adjustments
Key timescales
- the registration letter includes all your key deadlines – read it carefully and note these dates
- LA response deadline: usually 30 working days after registration
- evidence deadlines: included in your registration letter
- any changes: request as soon as possible using the correct form
What you need to do
- read your registration letter carefully
- note all deadlines
- keep track of all your communication
- copy the LA into every email you send
- use the case review form to confirm attendees or update the tribunal
- use the request for change form to make changes
- submit evidence on time
Who is responsible?
You: responding to correspondence and sharing updates
The LA: responding to deadlines and sharing evidence
The tribunal: managing the process
Helpful links
IPSEA Guide to Registration - What happens after I submit my appeal?
Documents to keep safe
- registration letter
- all emails and letters
- case review and request for change forms
- copies of evidence submitted
- copies of any communication with the LA
FAQs and tips
What if I miss a deadline?
Contact the tribunal immediately using the request for change form.
Do I need to copy the LA into everything?
Yes — this is a tribunal requirement.
Can I get help?
Yes — Liaise and IPSEA can help you understand forms and deadlines.
Tips
- keep all emails in one folder
- use a calendar or diary to track deadlines
- respond to tribunal emails quickly – delays could affect your appeal
- keep printed copies of key documents