tribunal

A tribunal is a body established to settle disputes or determine claims according to law. Unlike ordinary trials in general courts, tribunals are often specialized, have informally structured procedures, and may operate with quasi-judicial powers. Tribunals can be permanent institutions or ad hoc bodies created to deal with a particular matter. They exist at national and international levels and may be part of the judiciary, an executive agency, or an independent authority.

Types include judicial tribunals that apply statutory rules in specific domains such as labor, taxation, immigration, social security, or consumer regulation; military tribunals that try service members in matters of discipline or offenses under military law; and religious or ecclesiastical tribunals in some jurisdictions. Internationally, tribunals include arbitral panels, truth commission bodies, and international courts that resolve disputes between states or prosecute individuals for crimes.

Composition and procedure vary. Tribunals are typically chaired by one or more judges or senior experts and may incorporate lay members. Hearings are often less formal than in general courts and may rely on written submissions and expert testimony. Decisions are usually issued as binding determinations with written reasons and may be subject to appeal, review, or supervisory oversight by a higher tribunal or a court.

Functions include adjudicating rights and obligations, determining eligibility for benefits or status, enforcing regulatory compliance, resolving disputes arising from administrative decisions, and delivering advisory or interpretive rulings where appropriate.

Critics point to concerns about access, transparency, consistency, and due process, while supporters highlight expertise, efficiency, and domain-specific specialization.