ESA tribunal experience

Aslan wrote:

Hi Fedup,

My understanding is that they are private, ie. not open to anyone else (the general public) to attend, so you wouldn't be able to 'just watch one' anyway.

Appeal tribunal hearings are in fact open to the general public, but it is rare for any other party to attend apart from the appellant, their representative if they have one, and possibly a presenting officer from the DWP, who is unlikely to be the decision maker who decided on entitlement.

The Tribunal Judge does however have the discretion to decide that the hearing should be held in private.

Hi Aslan and Crazydiamond thankyou for the information I really appreciate it.

I will keep my fingers crossed that no one comes into watch!

Unfortunately my interpretation of the descriptors on the ESA50 were well out so I am hoping that I can explain better in person; that I get that opportunity.

As my friend says, "you look normal but really you're as mad as a box of frogs" !

A massive thankyou for everyone's support and to the Mods who have patiently read my posts!

Best wishes,
Rachel

Crazydiamond - thanks for clarifying that. Bit of a shock - reasons for illness can be intensely personal.