Overview

You can appeal to the Reserve Forces Appeal Tribunals (RFAT) if:

  • you’re in the UK reserve forces and your request for exemption from service has been turned down
  • you employ a reservist and your request for their exemption from service has been turned down

The tribunal must receive your appeal within 5 days of you receiving the decision (‘determination’) letter or your application may be rejected.

If you’re going to miss the deadline and have a valid reason, say why when you appeal. Extensions are only granted in exceptional circumstances.

The tribunal is independent of government. A judge will listen to both sides of the argument before making a decision.

Help you can get

Contact RFAT or your legal representative if you have any questions about appealing. RFAT cannot give you legal advice.

Reserve Forces Appeal Tribunals
rfat@justice.gov.uk
Telephone: 0161 833 6100
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Find out about call charges

You may want to get legal advice before you appeal.