Challenging a decision

If you disagree with the decision made on your benefit claim you can ask for a written statement of reasons, this will explain their stance on the matter, if you still believe the decision is wrong then you can ask for it to be looked at again, and/or appeal. The time limits are strict, you will usually be given one month to dispute a decision, so it is important to seek advice and act quickly. Decision Makers (and Tribunals) have a degree of freedom to take an individual’s circumstances into account, they can take a more individual approach considering all the facts about the claim.

As a general rule, we would suggest that you follow the DWP's own complaints route to remedy a refused claim, any action to question the decision will not be considered until you have completed this route. You are, of course, able to get advice on how to manage the appeal process, or request us to manage it for you.

 

How we can help

Lestons can provide this service for you if you prefer, just send your caseworker as much information as you can from the outset so that we can provide as much detail regarding the complaint, your caseworker will manage all processes, referring to a specialist benefits solicitor to act for you in the following ways: -

• Help to prepare all the evidence you need to put your best case forward;
• Research the laws that could be used in your case;
• Prepare a written statement/report to send to tribunal ahead of the hearing; and
• Seek the maximum benefit, or combination of benefits to increase the value and duration of your claim.

 

To initiate our involvement simply create a case using the link at the top of this page, you will then need to deposit a sum equal to one hour’s usage, upon receipt of these funds you will be assigned your personal caseworker who will telephone you to discuss the matter and make suggestions on how to proceed.

 

Please note your caseworker can only give generic advice, their role is to prepare your details for handling by our benefits advisor and to act as your point of contact, they will also issue you with your Password and PIN, these will be needed to log onto your client dashboard. From your dashboard you will be able to manage and view every aspect of your case, upload documents, images, files etc.