Question 1

Is it realistic to win a case against a government authority?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Article 55 of the Constitution of Ukraine guarantees everyone the right to challenge decisions, actions, or omissions of public authorities in court. Thousands of such cases are successfully won by citizens every year. Success depends on the evidence of rights violations, proper preparation of documents, and a strong legal strategy. The chances of success are higher where the violation of law is clear and well-documented.

Question 2

What should I do if a government authority ignores my requests?

Accepted Answer

Failure to act can also be challenged. First, submit a written complaint to the superior authority (if applicable). If your complaint is ignored, you may file an administrative claim with the court. The court may declare the authority's inaction unlawful and order it to take the required action.

Question 3

Can I challenge a decision if a long time has passed?

Accepted Answer

The general time limit for filing an administrative claim is six months from the date when you became aware, or should have become aware, of the violation of your rights. In certain cases (following a mandatory pre-trial appeal), the period may be one or three months. Courts may restore missed deadlines for valid reasons such as illness, force majeure, or wartime circumstances.

Question 4

What decisions of government authorities can be challenged in court?

Accepted Answer

Almost any decision, action, or omission of a public authority or official may be challenged if it violates your rights, freedoms, or legitimate interests. Exceptions apply where a specific legal procedure for appeal is established by law.

Question 5

What is the difference between administrative and judicial appeals?

Accepted Answer

A pre-trial appeal involves submitting a complaint to a higher authority or a specialized commission. It is usually free of charge and faster, although often less effective. Court proceedings provide an independent review and result in a legally binding decision that can be enforced. In certain categories of cases, such as tax disputes, a pre-trial appeal may be mandatory before going to court.

Question 6

What is an administrative claim and how is it filed?

Accepted Answer

An administrative claim is a lawsuit filed to protect a person's rights against unlawful decisions, actions, or omissions of public authorities. It is submitted to the relevant Administrative Court. Claims may be filed in person, by registered mail, or electronically through the Electronic Court system using a qualified electronic signature.

Question 7

When does it make sense to apply to the Supreme Court?

Accepted Answer

After unsuccessful proceedings in the first-instance and appellate courts, a party may file a cassation appeal with the Supreme Court. This is appropriate where there has been a significant violation of substantive or procedural law, inconsistent judicial practice, or where the case has broader legal importance.

Question 8

When can an application be submitted to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR)?

Accepted Answer

An application may be filed with the European Court of Human Rights after all effective domestic remedies have been exhausted, usually including proceedings before the Supreme Court. The application must be submitted within four months of the final domestic decision and must concern rights protected by the European Convention on Human Rights.

Question 9

What documents are required to begin working on a case?

Accepted Answer

A copy of the disputed decision or response (or evidence of inaction). A power of attorney (if representation is required). Supporting evidence, correspondence, and relevant documents.

Question 10

How does the initial consultation work?

Accepted Answer

The first consultation usually lasts 30–60 minutes. You explain your situation and provide available documents. The lawyer evaluates the prospects of the case, applicable deadlines, necessary evidence, and proposes a legal strategy. Consultations may be conducted online (Zoom, phone) or in person.

Question 11

How much does representation in an administrative case cost?

Accepted Answer

Fees depend on the complexity of the matter: preparation and filing of a claim — from UAH 5,000–15,000; full representation in the court of first instance — from UAH 15,000–50,000; appeal or cassation proceedings — from UAH 10,000–30,000. Court fees are charged separately (from ~UAH 1,300 for individuals). The exact cost is determined after reviewing the case materials.

Question 12

Will my court fee be reimbursed if I win the case?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If the claim is fully or partially successful, the court fee is generally recovered from the defendant public authority. Reimbursement is carried out based on the court's decision and the applicable enforcement procedure.

Question 13

Can I be represented if I live in another city or abroad?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Representation can be arranged remotely. You may issue a power of attorney to a lawyer, including from abroad through notarization, apostille, or consular legalization where required. In most administrative cases, your personal attendance is not mandatory.

Question 14

What should I do if my pension application is denied?

Accepted Answer

Obtain the written decision of the Pension Fund. Submit an administrative complaint to the higher Pension Fund authority. If the complaint is rejected or ignored, file an administrative claim with the court. Pension disputes often involve detailed legal and financial calculations, making professional legal assistance advisable.

Question 15

How can I challenge a traffic fine?

Accepted Answer

The appeal period is generally 10 days from receipt of the decision. Administrative appeal: submit a complaint to the relevant police authority. Judicial appeal: file a claim with the competent local court.

Question 16

What should I do if the tax authority issues an unlawful decision?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, a complaint should first be submitted to the higher tax authority within the applicable statutory deadlines. After that, or in certain cases simultaneously, the decision may be challenged before an administrative court. Strict procedural deadlines apply.

Question 17

How can I challenge the results of an inspection by a regulatory authority?

Accepted Answer

The procedure depends on the authority involved (Tax Service, State Labour Service, Consumer Protection Authority, etc.). Typically, the process involves an administrative appeal followed by court proceedings. It is important to gather evidence of procedural violations or factual errors in the inspection report.

Question 18

What should I do if I was unlawfully dismissed from public service?

Accepted Answer

Unlawful dismissal from public service can be challenged in administrative court, usually within one month. Possible remedies include reinstatement, compensation for lost earnings, and damages. Evidence proving the unlawfulness of the dismissal is essential.

Question 19

How can I challenge a refusal to issue a permit or license?

Accepted Answer

You may first file a complaint with the issuing authority or its superior body. If unsuccessful, an administrative claim may be filed seeking recognition of the refusal as unlawful and an order requiring the authority to issue the permit or license. The standard limitation period is generally six months.

Service	Price
Oral Legal Consultation	Free
Rapid Review of a Public Authority Decision or Order	From $150
Written Legal Opinion and Advice	From $350
Freedom of Information Request and Legal Support	From $200
Attorney's Request for Information	From $150
Preparation of Applications, Petitions, and Complaints	From $200
Administrative Appeal to a Higher Authority	From $400
Administrative Challenge of a Government Decision or Order	From $500
Preparation of an Administrative Claim	From $750
Representation before the Administrative Court of First Instance	From $2,000
Appeal Brief Preparation	From $750
Representation before the Appellate Administrative Court	From $2,500
Cassation Appeal to the Supreme Court	From $1,500
Representation before the Supreme Court	From $4,000
Representation before the Grand Chamber or Joint Chamber of the Supreme Court	From $7,500
Application for Review Based on Newly Discovered Circumstances	From $1,000
Preparation of an Application to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR)	From $5,000

Administrative Disputes

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