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Process

Although the CSAC is a quasi-judicial body and therefore a degree of formality is required, the Commission aims to make Hearings as relaxed and informal as possible.

The exact process and procedure for a particular Hearing is likely to vary from Hearing to Hearing depending on the nature and circumstances of the appeal itself. However, in general terms a Hearing is likely to operate as follows –

• The Chairman will begin by outlining the procedures that the Commission will follow.
• The appellant or their representative will be invited to make a brief statement before the Commission puts any questions to them. The statement should briefly explain why you think the decision you are appealing is unfair; there is no need to go through the written material in detail as Commission Members will have read the papers prior to the Hearing.
• Questions will then be put to the appellant by the Commission.
• The Chief Officer will be invited to outline his/her position.
• Questions will then be put to the Chief Officer by the Commission.
• Both parties will be allowed to call and question witnesses.
• The appellant and Chief Officer will then be given a chance to make a final statement to the Commission.
• The Hearing will conclude and all the parties will be asked to leave.

Witnesses

In the course of the Hearing both the appellant and the chief officer may call witnesses to confirm matters contained in their submissions. Both parties will also be able to ask questions of each other’s witnesses if they wish to do so.

Documents of Evidence

In the course of the Hearing both parties may also submit documents to confirm matters contained in their submissions. If you intend to submit documents in this way you need to ensure that you bring at least 8 copies of each document with you for circulation to Members of the Commission and the Chief Officer.

Last Updated: 2006-12-21