Judicial Review

Judicial review is the process by which a court reviews the actions of a public body or government official to ensure that they are lawful and comply with the principles of natural justice. The purpose of judicial review is to ensure that public authorities act within their powers, that they do not act in an arbitrary or irrational manner, and that they act fairly and in accordance with the law.

Judicial review can be used to challenge a wide range of decisions, actions, or omissions by public authorities, including decisions made by government ministers, local authorities, and regulatory bodies. Examples of decisions that can be subject to judicial review include decisions to grant planning permission, decisions to award contracts, and decisions to deport individuals.

The grounds for judicial review are typically based on procedural impropriety, illegality, or irrationality. Procedural impropriety may occur if the public authority did not follow proper procedures when making its decision. Illegality may occur if the decision is outside the authority's powers or is unlawful in some other way. Irrationality may occur if the decision is so unreasonable that no reasonable public authority could have made it.

Judicial review is a key mechanism for ensuring accountability and upholding the rule of law. It is an important way for citizens to challenge decisions that affect their rights and interests, and it ensures that public authorities act in a fair, transparent, and accountable manner.