Judicial Review and RSLs John Linwood DR&L Department Trowers & Hamlins LLP Date 22 January 2010

Judicial Review & RSLs ■ Why it matters ■ What it is ■ Weaver – before and after

Grounds for Challenge ■ Ultra Vires ■ Errors of law ■ Errors of fact ■ Considerations ■ Reasonableness ■ Legitimate Expectation (substantive or procedural) ■ Natural justice ■ Consultation

Procedure ■ Pre-Action Protocol letter ■ 3 months limitation period ■ Application for permission ■ Acknowledgment of Service – 21 days (like defence) ■ Dismissal or directions ■ Hearing ■ Costs

Tenant Consultation ■ Reasons for ■ Adequate and proper ■At formative stage ■Sufficient information and reasoning ■Adequate time ■Proper consideration

Board Decisions – (1) ■ Facts ■ Legal advice ■ The big IF ■ Relevant considerations ■ Consistent application of policy ■ Procedure ■ Matter for decision Officers’ report to the Board

Board Decisions – (2) ■ Clear divide with officers ■ No bias or partiality ■ Clear minutes, separate for legally privileged matters ■ The decision itself ■ Reasons The Board

What RLSs need ■ Clear, well kept records ■ Clear, fair and relevant policies ■ Appropriate, documented procedures Audit trail to show: ■ Compliance with the above and law ■ Legitimate aim ■ Actions reasonable and proportionate

Summary ■ Courts do not want to stop/prevent pragmatic decisions made in the interests of tenants and the RSL. ■ Document ■Facts/law considered ■Procedure followed ■Decision itself ■Reasons for it