Challenge an election result
When you can make a challenge
You may be able to challenge the result of an election if you think it was not run properly, for example the votes were not counted correctly or a candidate broke the law.
You can challenge a UK Parliament election if either of the following apply:
- you had the right to vote in it
- you were a candidate
You can challenge a local government election if either:
- you’re part of a group of at least 4 people who had the right to vote in the election
- you were a candidate
The deadline
You must usually apply within 21 days of when:
- the result of the UK Parliament election was returned to the Clerk of the Crown in Chancery
- the local government election was held
A judge might let you apply after 21 days if:
- you think there have been corrupt or illegal practices, for example bribery
- your complaint is about election expenses, for example you think the winner spent more than they were allowed