Definition

Noun: A board of officials, typically appointed rather than elected, whose primary function is to review and reconsider decisions made by an administrative agency, official, or lower body. It is an administrative tribunal, not a court of law, that hears appeals on specific matters such as zoning, licensing, or tax assessments.

Usage

The term "board of appeals" is used to refer to the specific administrative body itself. It is often part of a proper name for such a body within a government or organization. - The homeowner filed a petition with the board of appeals to challenge the zoning decision. - The Board of Appeals for the county will review the tax assessment next month.

Advanced Usage

• "to appear before the board of appeals": To present one's case in a formal hearing to this board.
  • The contractor had to appear before the board of appeals to argue for the building permit.
• "decision of the board of appeals": The final ruling issued by this body after hearing an appeal.
  • The decision of the board of appeals is binding unless overturned in a court of law.

Variants and Related Words

• Appeals Board (n): A common alternative term with the same meaning.
  • The matter was forwarded to the Appeals Board for a final administrative review.
• Board of Review (n): A similar administrative body, often used in contexts like property tax appeals.
• Administrative Tribunal (n): A broader category of decision-making bodies that includes boards of appeals.

Synonyms

• Appellate Board: A formal synonym emphasizing its function of hearing appeals.
• Review Panel: A general term for a group convened to re-examine a decision.

Related Phrases

• "to lodge an appeal with the board": To formally submit an appeal to this body.
  • You must lodge an appeal with the board within 30 days of the initial decision.
• "board of appeals hearing": The formal proceeding where the board listens to arguments on an appeal.
  • The board of appeals hearing is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon.

Noun

1. a board of officials that are not judicial but are appointed to hear appeals