Administrative Law
Core concepts
Administrative law governs the exercise of public power: legality, due process, reasoned decisions, and judicial review of administrative acts. Know the grounds for annulment (lack of competence, procedural defect, error of law, abuse of discretion) and the distinction between legality and merits review.
Traps
Questions often test whether a court can substitute its judgment for the administrator's; generally it reviews legality, not policy. Another trap is confusing the duty to give reasons with the duty to consult. Watch for time limits for challenging administrative decisions.
Worked example
A license is revoked without a hearing. The defect is procedural; the remedy is annulment and remittal, not a court order granting the license. Rule of thumb: identify the ground of review before choosing the remedy.
Exam strategy
Structure answers as: competence, procedure, reasoning, discretion, and remedy.