I've my first DLA appeal tribunal to rep at after a period of maternity leave and I'm not feeling particularly confident about my submission format which I put together some time ago.

Do you tend to use a standard format? If so, I would be extremely grateful if anyone could send me a copy as I really want to feel confident about the manner of my submission.

Many thanks for any help you can give me.

My e-mail address is: caroline.dabbs@enfield.gov.uk

Hi Caroline,

My submissions are normally from the perspective of LAs (HB & CTB) and these generally follow the "seven section" format.

However, on the occasions when assisting from the side of the claimant, I have never used a set "format". Depending on the merits of each case, I usually first obtain a Statement of Reasons. In conjunction with notification letters, they often have the effect of giving half my case for me .

So, with that info, I tend to keep it simple. A list of bullet points (numbered) is my usual "format"; arguing and listing the omissions and/or errors point by point, cross referencing facts where appropriate and quoting Regs and CDs/case law as and when relevant and helpful (but keeping CDs & case law to a minimum - normally far less than when preparing an LA submission).

Just so that you're aware, I don't assist from the clmt side very often so others who do this regularly may have a different take - especially if their specific experience in DLA suggests a different approach is more appropriate.

Hope the above is at least useful as a starting point.