Police Appeals Tribunal
Decisions Analysis
The Police Appeals Tribunal (PAT) is the final stage of challenge for officers dismissed or sanctioned following misconduct. This guide provides a structured, data-led analysis of decisions and outcomes.
Trust Notice: Based on published tribunal outcomes and statutory framework. Not legal advice. Updated: 12 February 2026.
What Is the Police Appeals Tribunal?
The Police Appeals Tribunal (PAT) is an independent panel that reviews misconduct dismissal decisions and certain other sanctions imposed under the Police (Conduct) Regulations 2020.
It is not a rehearing of the case. It is a structured review of procedural fairness, reasonableness of findings, proportionality of sanction, or new evidence (where permitted).
How Often Do Appeals Succeed?
Based on published decisions across recent reporting cycles, the majority of appeals are dismissed. A minority result in sanction reduction, and full overturn of gross misconduct findings is rare.
Estimated Outcome Patterns (Recent Cycles)
DISCLAIMER: Exact percentages vary by year and force. Indicative only.
Why Appeals Fail
Appeals fail primarily because no procedural error is identified, the sanction is deemed proportionate, or the Tribunal is reluctant to substitute its own judgment for that of the original panel.
The Tribunal does not lightly interfere with findings of fact made by an independent panel.
When Appeals Succeed
- There was clear procedural unfairness.
- Evidence was improperly excluded.
- The sanction was manifestly excessive.
- New evidence fundamentally alters context.
Appeal Risk Insight
Procedural errors that prejudiced the outcome are a primary reason for successful appeals. The Tribunal focuses heavily on whether the process was fair and regulation-compliant.
Disclaimer: Indicative guidance only based on general Tribunal principles. Not predictive of any specific case outcome.
Integrity vs Operational Judgment
Data analysis suggests a divergence in outcomes based on the nature of the misconduct:
Integrity Cases
(e.g. Dishonesty, sexual misconduct)
Lowest success rate on appeal.
Tribunals prioritise public confidence and honesty.
Operational Judgment
(e.g. Use of force decisions)
Slightly higher rate of reduction.
More scope for arguing proportionality.
Dismissal cases reaching PAT often involve dishonesty, abuse of position, violence, sexual misconduct, and data misuse. Tribunal reasoning consistently emphasises public confidence, integrity, and the Standards of Professional Behaviour.
The Role of Proportionality
Proportionality is central. The Tribunal asks:
"Was dismissal within the range of reasonable responses?"
Not: "Would we have decided differently?"
This distinction is critical.
Misconduct Hearing vs PAT Appeal
Misconduct Hearing
- Fact-finding process
- Evidence presented live
- Determines the sanction
Appeals Tribunal
- Review-based process
- Procedural focus
- Sanction review only
Barred List
Dismissal ensures barred list entry. Appeal does not automatically stop this review process.
Pension Impact
Appeal success does not automatically restore pension benefits unless dismissal is overturned.
Duration
Appeals typically take 2–6 months. Delays occur due to scheduling and complexity.
Common Questions
How often do police misconduct appeals succeed?
Most appeals are dismissed. Only a minority result in sanction reduction or rehearing.
Can dismissal be overturned on appeal?
Yes, but it is rare and usually requires procedural error or clear disproportionality.
Does the Tribunal re-hear all evidence?
No. It reviews the existing record and submissions.
Does an appeal stop barred list placement?
Not automatically.
How long does a PAT appeal take?
Typically several months, depending on complexity.