File a lawsuit with the Administrative Court
Lawsuits against administrative decisions (e.g., denied building permits, administrative orders) before the administrative court following a prior appeal process.
How to proceed
- 1
File an appeal and await the decision on the appeal
In most countries, this is a prerequisite for filing a lawsuit.
- 2
Please note the deadline for filing a lawsuit
One month after the notice of objection was served.
- 3
File a complaint in writing
By filing a statement of claim with the competent administrative court.
Required documents
- Initial decisionMandatory
- Notice of AppealMandatory
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 12 months
Official: max. approx. 1 months
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • One-month deadline for filing a lawsuit has been missed
- • Incorrect type of lawsuit selected
Common reasons for rejection
- • Lawsuit filed after the one-month deadline has expired
- • No prior appeal proceedings
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Citizens and businesses who wish to challenge an adverse administrative decision or seek a benefit.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 12 months
Success rate
approx. 38.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •One-month deadline for filing a lawsuit has been missed
- •Incorrect type of lawsuit selected
Common reasons for rejection
- •Lawsuit filed after the one-month deadline has expired
- •No prior appeal proceedings
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.
Questions & Answers
Do I have to file an objection before the lawsuit is filed?▼
In most states, yes, but there are exceptions.