The purpose of public hearings

Misconduct hearings are held to present the facts of the case and allow the person to give an explanation of their conduct and the circumstances surrounding the allegation. Witnesses may also be called to give evidence.

The purpose of a public hearing is to show that our disciplinary system is open and transparent. It will demonstrate that we do hold officers who breach the standards of professional behaviour, or those where misconduct is found proven, accountable for their actions.

Who can attend?

We allocate places at the hearing on a first-come-first-served basis. You can apply using our booking form.

We allocate places at the hearing on a first-come-first-served basis. You can apply using our booking form.

Please note that the Chair may also decide to impose other conditions before or during the hearing.

Apply to attend a hearing

To request a place at a hearing, please view the upcoming hearings and complete the quick and simple form. If a place is available we’ll send you a confirmation email.

We can’t reimburse any expenses you incur by attending.

Please note

Sometimes a misconduct hearing is cancelled at short notice. In these situations we’ll do our best to notify you, but it may not be possible. We’re sorry if this happens to you. 

Changes to expect

Sometimes a misconduct hearing is not held in public or only a part is heard in public. To decide this, the Chair takes into account:

  • national security
  • whether it interferes with the prevention or detection of crime
  • the welfare of parties involved

If the Chair decides that the evidence to be given by a witness or anyone else should not be disclosed in public, they’ll ask that the public be removed from the hearing.

Accessibility 

Police appeals tribunals

Police appeals tribunals hear appeals against the findings of gross misconduct brought by police officers or special constables.

Members of the public can attend appeal hearings as observers but aren’t allowed to participate in proceedings.