tribunals

Tribunals are bodies established by law to decide disputes in specific areas of public law and administration. They are typically quasi-judicial, meaning they determine issues and make binding decisions but are governed by statutory rules that emphasize accessibility and specialized expertise. Tribunals handle a range of matters such as taxation, social security and welfare benefits, migration and asylum, employment and labor disputes, and regulatory compliance. Their purpose is to provide a faster, more specialized forum than ordinary courts for issues arising under government programs and regulations.

A tribunal's composition often includes both legally qualified members and lay or expert members, depending on the area. Proceedings are generally less formal than conventional court hearings, with simplified rules of evidence and procedure designed to reflect the technical nature of the issues. Decisions are usually issued in writing and are typically reviewable on certain grounds by a higher court or through internal appeals, administrative reviews, or, in some systems, by a designated appellate tribunal. The standard of proof and the scope of appeal vary by jurisdiction and area.

Tribunals are part of the administrative-law framework and are distinct from ordinary courts in their specialization and, often, speed and cost-efficiency, as well as in their ability to apply technical expertise. Critics have pointed to potential concerns about consistency, independence, and funding, prompting reforms in some jurisdictions to improve transparency and accountability. Examples of common tribunal areas include tax, social security, immigration, and employment disputes.