How long do I have to start a judicial review claim?

If you are challenging an unlawful decision by a public body, such as one based on illegality, irrationality, or procedural unfairness, judicial review has a strict three-month limitation period. Because this timeframe is rigid, it is sensible to take advice early to ensure your claim is submitted within the allowable window.

Are the LGSCO and PHSO free to use, and what are their limitations?

The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGSCO) and the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) are free to use. However, they are described as slower than judicial review and their findings are limited to maladministration. They are distinct from judicial review, which addresses unlawful decisions.

What are the main types of public-sector complaints covered?

The content outlines several routes for public-sector complaints, including local authority complaints, NHS complaints to providers, and government department complaints via an MP. It also mentions the option of making a Freedom of Information (FOI) request or escalating to an ombudsman if necessary.

When is judicial review the correct legal route to take?

The text specifies that judicial review is the appropriate mechanism for challenging decisions that are unlawful due to illegality, irrationality, or procedural unfairness. This is distinct from ombudsman complaints, which are limited to findings of maladministration.

All Situations

For Public-Sector Complainants

Local authority complaints, NHS, government department complaints, ombudsman escalation, and judicial review.

Reviewed 2026-05-22

Common Problems

Council complaint — Stage 1

NHS complaint to provider

Government department complaint (via MP)

Judicial review of a decision

FOI request

Key Legal Topics

Administrative & Public Law

Judicial review, public body powers, and principles of administrative justice.

Letter Templates

Formal Complaint to a Council

Stage 1 written complaint to a local authority in England, referencing the council's published complaints procedure.

Formal NHS Complaint

Stage 1 NHS complaint letter to a provider in England, before escalation to PHSO.

Freedom of Information Request

Statutory request for information from a UK public authority under the FOIA 2000.

Ombudsman Escalation Letter (Generic)

Letter referring an unresolved complaint from a regulated firm or public body to the relevant ombudsman scheme.

Legal Tools & Calculators

LGSCO complaint deadline

12 months from the issue (extendable in exceptional cases).

PHSO complaint deadline

12 months for NHS / government department complaints.

Housing Ombudsman complaint deadline

12 months from the landlord's final complaint response.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to start a judicial review claim?: If you are challenging an unlawful decision by a public body, such as one based on illegality, irrationality, or procedural unfairness, judicial review has a strict three-month limitation period. Because this timeframe is rigid, it is sensible to take advice early to ensure your claim is submitted within the allowable window.
Are the LGSCO and PHSO free to use, and what are their limitations?: The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman (LGSCO) and the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) are free to use. However, they are described as slower than judicial review and their findings are limited to maladministration. They are distinct from judicial review, which addresses unlawful decisions.
What are the main types of public-sector complaints covered?: The content outlines several routes for public-sector complaints, including local authority complaints, NHS complaints to providers, and government department complaints via an MP. It also mentions the option of making a Freedom of Information (FOI) request or escalating to an ombudsman if necessary.
When is judicial review the correct legal route to take?: The text specifies that judicial review is the appropriate mechanism for challenging decisions that are unlawful due to illegality, irrationality, or procedural unfairness. This is distinct from ombudsman complaints, which are limited to findings of maladministration.

When to Get Legal Advice

For unlawful public body decisions (illegality, irrationality, procedural unfairness), judicial review has a strict 3-month limitation. The LGSCO/PHSO are free, slower, and limited to maladministration findings. Take advice early.