Ogbuehi Lawyers

Administrative Law

As an experienced administrative lawyer in Western Sydney suburbs like Parramatta, Lakemba, Auburn, Bankstown, and Eastwood, we provide specialized guidance and representation for administrative law matters.

Administrative law governs decisions made by government bodies and ensures proper procedures are followed. Whether challenging immigration rulings, council approvals in Parramatta, or freedom of information requests in Bankstown, our role ensures authorities act lawfully and your rights are protected. This involves regulating government decision bodies which is a key component of access to the rights of an individual. Merits review and Judicial review are two main types of Administrative review. 

Common Review Decisions are as follows: 

  • Migration and refugee visas and visa-related decisions. 
  • Commonwealth workers’ compensation. 
  • family assistance, paid parental leave, social security and student assistance. 
  • Taxation. 
  • Veterans’ entitlements. 
  • Australian citizenship. 

 

These cases can be complex, involving strict deadlines and documentation requirements. Understanding the specific agency involved, relevant legislation, and grounds to appeal is crucial. Achieving favorable outcomes in administrative law matters relies on a strategic approach encompassing multiple defense avenues. 

Why should you engage a lawyer to work with you?

Navigating the administrative law system alone can be daunting, especially against government authorities. Engaging skilled legal representation in administrative law matters provides numerous critical advantages. Our deep understanding of local and national regulatory environments, coupled with decades of experience in administrative litigation, equips us to navigate the intricacies of these cases effectively.

We possess extensive experience appearing before various administrative tribunals and courts, offering an intuitive grasp of the evidentiary and procedural nuances that influence decision-making. This knowledge is instrumental in presenting compelling cases that resonate with adjudicators. First, we meticulously review the administrative records, regulatory frameworks, and the specific circumstances surrounding the governmental action. This includes scrutinizing the procedural adherence, the evidentiary basis of the decision, and the legal justifications provided by the agency.

If we identify procedural irregularities, evidentiary gaps, or misapplications of law, we develop robust arguments to contest the administrative action. This may involve presenting detailed legal briefs, compelling oral arguments, and introducing evidence that counteracts the agency’s findings. We also engage in rigorous cross-examinations and gather expert testimonies to fortify our clients’ positions.

Where a complete reversal of the administrative decision proves challenging, we pursue negotiated settlements or modified decisions that impose the least burdensome conditions on our clients. Our experience in facilitating constructive dialogue with government officials ensures that resolutions are balanced and respect our clients’ rights and interests.

Finally, we ensure that the courts consider the broader implications of administrative decisions, including the personal and professional hardships they may cause. We emphasize issues such as economic impacts, disruptions to business operations, and adverse effects on mental health to advocate for more equitable outcomes.

Why work with us?

Our legal team represents clients whose interests are affected by the decision-making body in Australia, where public bodies and ministers are compelled to observe the written law. 

The view expressed in the Donoughmore Report, Report of the Committee on Ministers Power (1932) Cmnd 4060, was that an ‘administrative’ decision- maker ‘May need to consider and weigh submissions and arguments and collate evidence and does not have an unfettered discretion as to the grounds upon which to act nor the means which the decision-maker takes to inform itself before acting’.  

Once a decision is made by the delegated officer, our client has to provide a copy of that decision to us, which will enable our legal team to identify if there is a ground of Review at the appropriate court.   

Next step  

  • Contact and inform us about the decision.  
  • Provide us with the decision letter. 
  • We will organise a face to face meeting. 
 
Our dedicated team also provides robust support to manage the stress and uncertainty often associated with administrative disputes. From clear communication and strategic planning to connecting clients with additional resources, we adopt a holistic approach to representation.
 
Ultimately, by engaging our firm, you can trust that your legal rights and interests will receive diligent, ethical, and passionate advocacy aimed at achieving the best possible outcomes in all administrative law matters

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