Telephone case management hearing (TCMH)

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Not every appeal needs a telephone case management hearing (TCMH).

A TCMH is a short telephone appointment with a tribunal judge (not the same judge who will hear your case at the final hearing). It is not about deciding your appeal — it is simply to check everything is on track and to resolve any issues before the hearing.

You will be told in advance if a TCMH has been scheduled. The letter or email will include:

  • the date and time
  • how to join the call
  • who should attend

The local authority will be present, and you can bring a representative if you have one. Witnesses may not have to attend the hearing. Your child along or young person could attend ehe hearing just to say hello, or to read out a statement as appropriate.

The TCMH will

  • check that everything is ready for the main hearing
  • sort out any problems or delays (e.g. late evidence or witness issues)
  • discuss anything else the judge wants to clarify
  • make sure both sides understand what they need to do next

What may happen 

Before the call

  • you receive directions confirming the TCMH
  • you make a note of the date, time and dial in details
  • you prepare any questions or concerns you need to raise

During the call

  • the call usually lasts 20–30 minutes
  • the judge may ask straightforward questions such as: 
    • “who will be attending the hearing?”
    • “are you waiting for any final evidence?”
    • “do you need adjustments (breaks, interpreter etc.)?”
  • you might be asked to provide short, simple answers
  • you do not need to make a presentation or argue your case

After the call

  • the tribunal sends out an order (written summary) confirming what was discussed.
  • it will list any new instructions or deadlines
  • you follow the steps set out in the Order to keep your case on schedule

You can request a TCMH yourself if there are issues or complications with your appeal that you need to discuss with the judge.

Request the TCMH using the SEND7 request for change form. Examples of when this could be needed are if:

  • the LA has not done what it was instructed to do
  • there are delays
  • you are unsure about next steps and need guidance

What you need to do

  • check your directions so you know when your TCMH is taking place
  • have your papers, notes and questions ready
  • join the call on time using the instructions provided
  • take notes about anything the judge says you need to do
  • follow the new instructions or deadlines

Useful links

IPSEA - What happens after I submit my appeal: case review, management and JADR hearings | (IPSEA) Independent Provider of Special Education Advice

Documents to keep safe

  • tribunal directions
  • TCMH joining instructions
  • notes from the call
  • the order sent afterwards (with new deadlines and instructions)

FAQs

What if I don’t understand something the judge says? Ask during the call — you are allowed to request clarification.
What if I cannot attend the TCMH? Use SEND7 to explain why and ask for an alternative.

Tips

  • keep your answers short and clear
  • have a pen and paper ready
  • don’t be afraid to ask questions
  • read the follow up order carefully afterward