What People Say About Me

Asha
Great experience

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.

Elisabeth
Pensions advice

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.

Mussarat
M. Zeban

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.

Julian
PIP 1st Tier Tribunal Appeal

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.

Anna
Pip appeal / Tribunal

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.

Personal Independence Payments (PIP Appeals)

Understanding Personal Independence Payments

 

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit designed to support people aged 16 to 64 who face additional costs due to a long-term disability or health condition.

Unlike other benefits, Personal Independence Payment (PIP) focuses on the help you need in your daily life and mobility rather than your specific medical condition or medication.

Understanding the personal independence payment criteria that the DWP considers when assessing your application is crucial to making sure you get a positive result with your personal independence payment appeal.

Assessments focus on how your condition affects your ability to carry out specific tasks, grouped under daily living and mobility components.

Can You Appeal a PIP Decision?

If your PIP claim has been refused or your award reduced, you can challenge the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) decision by submitting a PIP appeal.

Additionally, you may also appeal if you’ve lost access to the Motability Scheme Vehicle because of a change to your PIP award.

Seeking advice early in the process ensures your case is handled effectively and meets all necessary deadlines.

What Steps Can You Take if You Disagree with a PIP Decision?

If you don’t agree with the DWP’s decision on your Personal Independence Payment, here’s what you can do:

  1. Request a Mandatory Reconsideration – Ask the DWP to review their decision and provide supporting evidence.
  2. Request a Statement of Reasons – This document explains the reasoning behind the decision and helps you understand your next steps.

Act promptly, as the deadline for challenging a decision is just one month.

Requesting a Mandatory Reconsideration

To challenge a decision, you must submit a mandatory reconsideration request within one month of receiving your decision letter. If you have missed the deadline you can request a mandatory reconsideration up to 13 months from the date on your decision letter if you can show good cause for the delay.

This is the first step in appealing a PIP decision and, if successful, the DWP can reinstate your payments.

The DWP may contact you during this process to discuss your case. If your request is denied, you’ll receive a mandatory reconsideration notice, which is required to proceed to the next stage of appeal.

Appealing a PIP Decision at a Tribunal

If your mandatory reconsideration is unsuccessful, you can appeal to an independent Social Security Tribunal.

This is an impartial panel that will review your case and make a fair decision.

The Tribunal Panel

The tribunal is an independent panel that will review your case and make a decision. It typically consists of three members:

  • Judge: A legally qualified individual who oversees the hearing and ensures it follows proper procedures.
  • Medical Professional: A healthcare expert (e.g., a doctor, nurse, or occupational therapist) who provides insights into how your condition may affect your daily life and mobility.
  • Disability Expert: A person with knowledge of how disabilities affect people’s ability to carry out daily activities.

A DWP presenting officer may also attend to explain why the Department for Work and Pensions made their original decision. If they attend, they may ask you questions or respond to your evidence.

To file an appeal:

After submitting your appeal, the DWP will send you a tribunal bundle, which includes their evidence and decision rationale. Preparing for this stage is critical to improving your chances of success.

How I Can Help with Your PIP Appeal

Navigating the appeals process for Personal Independence Payment can feel daunting. With over 20 years of experience in welfare benefits law, I can help you:

  • Prepare a strong appeal submission with the correct case law and regulations.
  • Advise you on which evidence will be relevant to strengthen your case.
  • Represent you at the tribunal, whether it’s an oral hearing or a written appeal.

Visit my reviews section for case studies that demonstrate how I have  helped clients successfully appeal their PIP decisions.

Appointments and How I Work

I provide flexible services across England and Wales. Most consultations are conducted via phone or email, but I also offer virtual meetings through Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Face-to-face appointments are available when required.

 

Transparent Fixed Fee Service

As legal aid is no longer available for welfare benefits appeals, I offer a fixed fee service. This ensures that you know the cost upfront, with no hidden charges.

My services are provided through Scott-Moncrieff & Associates Ltd Solicitors, an award-winning national firm known for its expertise in welfare benefits law.

Strengthen Your PIP Appeal with Evidence

Supporting evidence, such as reports from medical professionals, occupational therapists or physiotherapists, can make a significant difference to your appeal. This evidence helps demonstrate how your condition impacts your daily life and mobility.

Contact Me for Help with Your Personal Independence Payment Appeal

If you are struggling with a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) decision? I can help. Contact me for a free initial consultation to discuss your case and explore your options.

Understanding the PIP appeal process and working with an experienced qualified solicitor can significantly improve your chances of success.

Take the first step today by reaching out via the contact form below or by calling our office for a free initial consultation.

How to find us

London Office

Scott-Moncrieff & Associates Ltd Solicitors
Temple Chambers
3-7 Temple Avenue
London
EC4Y 0HP
Office: 0203 9729011
DX 116 LD
www.scomo.com

Leicester Office

Scott-Moncrieff & Associates Ltd Solicitors
New Walk House
108 New Walk
Leicester
LE1 7EA
Office: 0203 9729011