Challenging administrative rulings and fines

A decision imposing an administrative penalty can be challenged — often successfully. The most common grounds are procedural breaches, unproven circumstances, and expiry of the period for imposing a penalty.

When to get in touch

• a decision imposing a fine has been issued
• the offence record was drawn up improperly, or without you
• you disagree with the circumstances recorded in it
• the penalty was imposed after the statutory time limit had expired

What the lawyer does

• analyses the record and the decision for procedural breaches
• checks that the period for imposing the penalty has been observed
• prepares the complaint within the ten-day deadline
• assembles the evidence and arranges for witnesses to attend
• represents the client at the hearing and in court
• deals with questions arising from enforcement of the decision

Legal basis

The rights of a person facing administrative liability are set out in Article 268 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offences. As a general rule, an administrative penalty may be imposed no later than two months from the day the offence was committed or, for a continuing offence, from the day it was detected; where the case is heard by a court, no later than three months. Some offences have different time limits: for example, one year from the offence for driving under the influence (Article 130), and, for breaches of military registration and mobilisation law during a special period (Articles 210 and 210¹), three months from detection but no later than one year from the offence (Article 38). The right to challenge a decision is provided for by Article 287; the complaint may be filed within ten days of the decision (Article 289). As a general rule a fine must be paid no later than fifteen days after the decision is served (Article 307).

Legislation and case law are updated over time; this page reflects the position as of August 2026.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to challenge the decision?

Ten days from the day the decision was issued (Article 289 of the Code on Administrative Offences); a deadline missed for valid reasons may be restored.

What if the time limit for imposing a penalty has expired?

Expiry of the period for imposing a penalty (Article 38 of the Code on Administrative Offences) is a ground for challenging the decision in its own right. The general limit is two months, or three months where the case is heard by a court; some offences have longer limits, so we check them in every case.

Need legal assistance? Call us or leave a request — a lawyer will contact you and explain what to do in your situation.