What to Do If an Administrative Body (Police, Patrol Service, Inspectorates, State Revenue Committee, Municipality) Issues an Unlawful Act?

In daily life, citizens and businesses frequently interact with decisions issued by state or local self-government bodies. If you believe an unlawful act has been issued against you (e.g., an illegal fine, suspension of construction, or refusal of a license), it is crucial to act swiftly.

3 Golden Rules for Appealing Administrative Acts:

• Do Not Miss the Appeal Deadlines

  The most crucial feature of administrative law is strict deadlines.

  • Administrative Appeal (to a superior body): Typically granted 2 months (or shorter in certain cases, e.g., 1 month).

  • Filing a Lawsuit in Administrative Court: Generally 2 months from the date the act enters into force.

• Filing an Appeal Can Suspend Execution of the Act

  In many cases, if you appeal an administrative act within the prescribed procedure and timeframe—either administratively or judicially—its execution (e.g., enforcement of a fine) is suspended by operation of law until a final decision is reached.

• The Administrative Body Bears the Burden of Proof

  Unlike civil proceedings, administrative litigation applies a special burden of proof rule: the state authority itself must prove in court that its decision was lawful and well-founded.

Legal C’s Advice: Immediately upon receiving an administrative act, record the date of notification and contact a lawyer. If deadlines are missed, even an obviously unlawful act may become unappealable.