How does administrative law help control bureaucratic power?

Administrative law serves as a critical framework for controlling bureaucratic power by establishing legal boundaries for public authorities and providing mechanisms to address maladministration. It ensures that the executive arm of government operates within its delegated authority, preventing the misuse of power through several key methods:12

• Judicial Review: Often considered the heart of administrative law, this process allows courts or specialized tribunals to examine administrative acts. Courts assess whether an authority acted within its legal competence, followed fair procedures, and avoided abuses of discretion. If an action is found to be unreasonable or outside the scope of the law, it can be declared null and void.34
• Procedural Requirements: Administrative law mandates orderly procedures, such as requirements for public hearings, notice, and the opportunity for individuals to defend themselves. These rules ensure consistency, fix responsibility on specific bodies, and protect citizens against arbitrary decision-making.5
• Regulatory Oversight: To prevent the misuse of rule-making powers, regulations must conform to the aims of the parent statute and relevant constitutional standards. In many systems, these regulations are scrutinized by watchdogs, parliamentary assemblies, or courts before taking effect.6

By providing these legal safeguards, administrative law seeks to balance the need for an efficient, modern civil service with the fundamental necessity of protecting individual rights and ensuring government accountability.275