How can administrative courts review actions taken by civil servants?

Administrative courts and judicial bodies review actions taken by civil servants and public authorities to ensure they operate within their legal competence and follow fair procedures. Because administrative law governs the relationship between the state and the individual, these reviews are essential for maintaining accountability and protecting citizens against maladministration.1234

The methods of review vary significantly by legal system:

• Common-Law Systems: In countries like the United States and the United Kingdom, the actions of administrative agencies are often subject to review by ordinary courts. These courts examine whether an agency acted within its jurisdiction, interpreted the law correctly, and based its decisions on evidence. In the U.S., the Administrative Procedure Act provides specific safeguards for citizens, including rights to notice and independent hearings.25
• Council of State (French) Model: France and several other nations utilize specialized administrative tribunals, such as the Conseil d’État, which are separate from the ordinary judiciary. These bodies are specifically designed to adjudicate disputes between the administration and citizens, providing an independent check on executive power.62
• German System: Germany employs a fully articulated system of administrative courts that handle public law disputes, though claims for damages against officials are typically reserved for ordinary civil courts.4

Regardless of the system, judicial review generally focuses on the legality of an act rather than its political wisdom or expediency.13