Your case will normally be handled during a hearing. There is no hearing if:
- the judge considers that the documents are so clear that a hearing is not necessary AND all parties state that they do not want a hearing;
- the judge opts for simplified proceedings to handle your claim for compensation.
Simplified proceedings
The court may decide to settle the compensation appeal proceedings without a hearing. For example, because the administrative court is manifestly without jurisdiction, the documents are clear (manifestly well-founded or unfounded) or the notice of appeal was filed late (manifestly inadmissible).
Notice to attend a hearing
All parties receive a notice to attend the hearing. This notice to attend states when (date) and where (location) the hearing will take place. The hearing often takes place within 3 months after you have filed your notice of appeal.
Attending the hearing
You are not obliged to attend the hearing. If you do attend, you will have the opportunity to explain in your own words your application for compensation. You can also respond to any questions that the judge asks. The same applies to the public authority and any interested parties.
Public access to hearings
Hearings that deal with appeal proceedings for compensation against a public body are, in principle, public. This means that anyone may attend the hearing. In certain situations, the judge may decide that the hearing is to take place entirely or partly in camera (in private).
Witnesses
If you wish to summon a witness or bring one with you, you must notify the judge and the public authority in writing at least 10 days before the hearing.
Out-of-court mediation
Legal proceedings for compensation focus on the legal aspects of a dispute. Mediation means that you and the other party(-ies) seek a solution to all aspects of the dispute. The judge will therefore assess whether your case lends itself to mediation. You also have the option of indicating that you wish to follow the mediation route.