You can appeal to the Reserve Forces Appeal Tribunals (RFAT) if: 

• you are in the UK reserve forces and your request for exemption from service has been turned down 

• you employ a reservist and your request for their exemption from service has been turned down 

The tribunal must receive your appeal within 5 days of you getting the decision letter or your application will be rejected. 

If you are going to miss the deadline and have a valid reason, say why when you appeal. Extensions are only granted in exceptional circumstances. 

The tribunal is independent of government. A judge will listen to both sides of the argument before making a decision. 

Help you can get 

Contact RFAT or your legal representative if you have any questions about appealing. RFAT cannot give you legal advice. 

Reserve Forces Appeal Tribunals

rfat@justice.gov.uk

Telephone: 0161 833 6100

You can find legal advice, including from a lawyer.

See also:

• Appeal to the tribunal

• After you send your application

• What happens at the hearing

• If you are unhappy with the decision

• Legislation

For further information on Appealing a call up to reserve forces can be found on GOV.UK's website.