A lawyer working in the areas of administrative law and constitutional law will be able to pinpoint the appropriate way to resolve your problem with the government. When you consider the number of subject areas that governments administer it is no surprise that there are many different forms, processes and pieces of law that need to be considered. Experienced lawyers can navigate this complex pathway.

Initial issues that a lawyer can help you to clarify include:

·         whether or not this is actually a public law issue. It may in fact involve private law;

·         whether state or federal (national) law is relevant;

·         if either a court proceeding or a less formal process will be appropriate; and

·         which forms or application fees might apply.

An administrative lawyer will also be able to explain whether the government problem involves the facts, the law or both. This will determine whether you seek merits review or judicial review.

Sometimes when we think of using the law to change a government decision we picture courtrooms and arguments. Yet as your lawyer will explain administrative law is often based on getting the right answer without unnecessary costs or complications. In some government review processes it is actually necessary to undergo non-court processes such as informal discussions. Your lawyer will advise you on this.

Individual citizens can often carry out basic administrative law processes such as an application for merits review. Yet if you have any doubts about the subject matter or the steps that you need to take an experienced administrative lawyer will be able to put you on the right path. It is also very important to be aware of any time limits. For many government decisions there will be a time limit on when you must submit your review or appeal application. If this is not clear from the decision letter or other materials you have been sent your lawyer will be able to find the answer for you.