What is judicial review?

General information from Lawmateanz

Judicial review is a High Court process for challenging how a government decision was made. In New Zealand, it focuses on whether the decision-maker acted lawfully, fairly and reasonably, not whether the decision was the right one.

Common grounds include acting outside legal powers, failing to follow a fair process, and making a decision no reasonable decision-maker could make.

If successful, the court can quash the decision and send it back to be made again properly.

Judicial review can be costly, so try other options first, such as the Ombudsman, and get legal advice.

Written by Lawmateanz, not by a lawyer. General information only, not legal advice about your situation. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer.

Lawyers listed on Lawmateanz can answer this question. If you asked it, we'll email you as soon as it's answered.

Are you a lawyer? Answer this question · List free on Lawmateanz

General information only. Answers are written by independent lawyers based only on what's in the question. They aren't legal advice about your situation and don't create a lawyer–client relationship. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer directly.