the successful candidate was disqualified at the time of the election
the successful candidate was not duly elected
the election was invalidated by corrupt or illegal practices
the election was invalidated because of general corruption or the employment of a corrupt canvasser/ agent3
The Police and Crime Commissioner whose election or return is complained about must be a respondent to the petition. If the petition complains about the conduct of the Returning Officer (either the Police Area Returning Officer and/or the Local Returning Officer) or their staff during the election, the Returning Officer(s) may also be a respondent.4
Normally a petition must be presented within 21 calendar days after the date of the poll. However, if the petition complains of corrupt or illegal practices involving the payment of money or other reward, or an illegal practice relating to election spending, further time may be allowed.5
For any questions relating to election petitions, including to confirm the deadlines for lodging an election petition, you should contact:
The Election Petitions Office Room E105 Royal Courts of Justice Strand London WC2A 2LL
There are costs attached to an election petition. If you are considering lodging an election petition, we strongly recommend that you take independent legal advice.