Form 38A - Notice of appeal - Local Elections (Petitions and Disqualifications) Act, 1974

What this form is for

• • Use this form if you want to appeal a decision in a local election in Ireland
• • Use this form when you believe there were irregularities in the election process
• • Use this form if you're a candidate who disagrees with the election result
• • Use this form if you're a voter who believes the election was conducted improperly
• • Don't use this form for national elections or other types of legal appeals

Use this form or another form?

Deadline or filing window

The appeal must generally be filed within 21 days of the election decision being announced, though this timeframe may be extended by the court in exceptional circumstances.

Before you submit

• • All sections of the form are completed
• • Grounds for appeal are clearly stated
• • Relevant election details are accurately provided
• • Form is signed and dated
• • Copy of the decision being appealed is attached
• • Appropriate court fee is paid (if applicable)
• • Deadline for submission has not passed

How to file this form

1. 1Obtain the correct Form 38A from the Courts Service website or court office
2. 2Complete all sections with accurate information
3. 3Prepare supporting documents related to your appeal
4. 4Submit the form to the appropriate court office
5. 5Pay any required fees
6. 6Keep a copy of your submitted form for your records
7. 7Note the date of submission for future reference

Known limitations

• • This form only applies to local elections in Ireland
• • The appeal must be based on valid legal grounds
• • The court has discretion to accept or reject the appeal
• • The form does not guarantee the appeal will be successful
• • Legal representation may be necessary for complex cases