Help required with my appeal to Tribunal.

The tribunal panel usually read through the evidence bundle before the hearing. They will often allow extra evidence to be provided on the day, you should take enough copies for everyone and hand it to the clerk when you arrive.

Thanks Mrs Hurtyback will do as you suggest.

Hi Meleri

Today I have received my letter and instructions regarding my appeal and they expect to be contacting me with a date for my appeal in 33-37 weeks - I make that next March and my ESA runs out in April .

At least I know what is happening now - nothing really !! I just have another 9 months to worry about it and this process started in December 2012, so by the time it is resolved it will be about 17 months in total.

All the best for Monday and I look forward to hearing how you get on.

Hi Judith,

I made the mistake in thinking I would have the evidence/paperwork from past medicals, only to find when my appeal papers came they were not included. I rang up to ask why they hadn't been included only to be told they had been destroyed, so had to start from scratch.
As I have said earlier, it has paid for me to ask my GP to see my medical notes recently, as we found more evidence that had been overlooked. So if I were you I would definitely have a look at yours and build up a good case, as you have plenty of time.
Will be back on Monday to let everyone know whatever the outcome. and perhaps give an insight in to what happens. Thanks again for your good wishes.
Meleri

Hi Judith,

You are more than welcome. Bro was correct in pointing out that a Presenting Officer is sometimes sent to Tribunals.

However, their role at a Tribunal is called 'amicus curie' which literally means 'Friend of the Court'.

It is not their role to represent the DWP, but to ensure that the both the Decision Maker and the Tribunal apply the relevant law correctly.

Sadly, the DWP rarely send along a Presenting Officer (PO) these days. If they did, it would lead to more successful appeals as PO's are senior Decision Makers with a wealth of knowledge and experience in their particular field.

I WON !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Just got back from my appeal and I have been put in the Support Group for 2 years.