For some types of cases, it can take a long time before we are able to schedule a hearing or case event.

Other cases are listed for hearing or another case event quickly. 

Sometimes the law requires us to finalise a case within a certain period. If your case is one of these, we will write to you to confirm how long it will take before your hearing.

When we are ready, we will write to you and any other parties in a case to let them know a hearing or other case event has been scheduled.

You need to read the information in the letter or email we send you carefully to make sure you know what you need to do next.

Sometimes, we will include links to extra information. It is important that you read the information in these links too.

If you can't attend the hearing or other case event, you should tell us as soon as possible. We might be able to change the hearing date or allow you to attend by telephone or videoconference.

A request to change the date of the hearing should:

• be made in writing
• explain why you cannot attend
• include any supporting documents, such as a medical certificate.

The date of the hearing will only be changed if there are very good reasons to do so. If we do not agree to change the date, the hearing will go ahead as planned.

You can tell us you do not want to attend the hearing or case event and, if the decision-maker's representative and any other party agree, we might make a decision based on the information we have.

If you do not take part in a hearing you will not be able to tell us your version of events.