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Prakash Ruparelia was extremely knowledgeable about my benefits issue, where other firms had not been able to help me. He was communicative and reassuring, and provided sound advice that helped me to avoid issues further down the line. I would recommend his services.
I highly recommend Prakash Ruparelia from Scott-Moncrieff & Associates. He helped my mother to find a prompt and cost-effective way of resolving her case. At each stage of legal process Prakash gave clear and concise advice and provided an honest appraisal about the merits of our case. This helped us to make informed decisions about what steps to take. Always calm and well-prepared, Prakash worked tirelessly to achieve a brilliant result for us.
I was very fortunate to have found Prakash Ruparelia to help me. I was going through a bad time physically and mentally to deal with my claim.he made the process so easy and efficient. He is a very honest and professional at what he does . I’m very appreciative of his help.
I would like to thank Prakash Ruparelia for preparing appeal and representing my son at the PIP Tribunal last week. It was really helpful to have his expert guidance and reassurance throughout what has been a difficult and stressful process. The appeal was successful.
I had a fantastic experience with Scott-Moncrieff & Associates, my named solicitor was Prakash Ruparelia, he was very knowledgeable/ experienced in the process of personal independence payments appeals, he guided me through the process, reassuring me at all times. He was professional and communication was key for me, he always responded to any queries I had.
I would highly recommend their services and wouldn’t hesitate to use them again.If the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has refused your Mandatory Reconsideration, your next step is to appeal to the First-Tier Tribunal.
The tribunal is independent from the DWP and has the power to overturn their decisions on PIP, ESA, Universal Credit, overpayments, Housing Benefit, and other welfare benefits.
I am a Solicitor regulated by the SRA, with over 25 years’ experience successfully representing clients at tribunals across England and Wales. With professional representation, your chances of winning increase dramatically.
The First-Tier Tribunal (Social Security and Child Support Chamber) is a judicial body that hears disputes between claimants and decision-makers such as the DWP, HMRC, or local authorities.
Typical appeals include:
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) refusals or low awards
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) disputes
Universal Credit (UC) Limited Capability for Work decisions
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) cases
Housing Benefit and Council Tax reduction disputes
Overpayments and sanctions
Tax credit decisions
Who hears my case?
A legally qualified judge
Sometimes a doctor, disability expert, or financial expert (depending on the issue)
Mandatory Reconsideration (MR)
You must request this first. If refused, you can then appeal.
Submitting the SSCS1 Form
Deadline: 1 month from MR notice
Extensions: up to 13 months if you have a valid reason (illness, mental health, postal delays).
Preparing Evidence
Medical reports, care plans, witness statements, and diaries are crucial.
The Hearing
Oral hearing (recommended): You attend in person/online, answer questions, and I represent you.
Paper hearing: Decision based only on documents (much lower success rates).
Decision
Often given on the day
Or in writing within 2–4 weeks
If You Lose
Request a Statement of Reasons
Possible appeal to the Upper Tribunal if an error of law is found
Government statistics show that claimants who attend with representation are up to 3 times more likely to succeed.
As your solicitor, I will:
Analyse your DWP decision for legal flaws
Draft compelling written submissions
Prepare you for tribunal questions
Represent you at the hearing
Handle any further appeal to the Upper Tribunal
PIP Appeals: Challenging unfair mobility and daily living scores
ESA Appeals: Arguing Limited Capability for Work (LCW/LCWRA)
Universal Credit Appeals: Contesting capability decisions or sanctions
Overpayment Appeals: Reducing or overturning alleged debts
Fraud Allegations: Defending against DWP accusations of dishonesty
1 month: Standard appeal deadline after MR
13 months: Maximum late appeal window
Act fast: Missing the deadline can close your case
Do I have to attend the tribunal?
No, but oral hearings are far more successful.
How long does an appeal take?
Typically 4–8 months, depending on location.
What if I lose?
We can request a Statement of Reasons and, if appropriate, appeal to the Upper Tribunal.
Do I need a solicitor?
Not legally, but professional representation can make the difference between success and failure.
Over 20 years’ experience
Thousands of appeals handled successfully
SRA regulated solicitor
National coverage: London, Leicester, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff and beyond
Affordable and professional representation
If your Mandatory Reconsideration has been refused, don’t face the tribunal alone.
Call 0203 9729011 now or fill in the enquiry form for expert help with your First-Tier Tribunal appeal.