Under martial law in Ukraine, all conscripted men aged 18 to 60 must comply with military registration rules. However, failure to appear at the Territorial Recruitment Center (TRC) or refusal to undergo a military medical examination (MMC) may result in fines. A lawyer at the Bar explained how such fines can be appealed.
Can the fine for failing to appear at the military registration and enlistment office be canceled?
According to the lawyer, the first thing to do is to check whether all legal procedures were followed when serving the summons and imposing the fine. Often, the CCC and the SP assume violations that may be grounds for canceling the fine. For example, if a person does not live at the specified address and did not physically receive the summons or was not properly notified.
The legislation provides for only three valid reasons for failure to appear at the CCC:
- The disease is confirmed by medical certificates.
- Death of a close relative - confirmed by relevant documents.
- Force majeure circumstances – for example, an air raid or hostilities that made arrival impossible.
If a person has a valid reason, they must notify the CCC in writing prior to the scheduled appearance.
What documents are needed to appeal a fine?
After receiving the decision to impose a fine, the citizen has 10 days to file a complaint with the court. During this period, the legality of the actions of the CCC and the SP should be verified in accordance with the Code of Administrative Offenses.
To appeal a fine, you need:
- a copy of the resolution imposing a fine;
- evidence of violations in the procedure for serving a summons or drawing up a report;
- documents confirming a valid reason for absence (medical certificates, death certificates of loved ones, air raid warning documents, etc.);
- a written application to the court or a complaint to a higher authority.
The lawyer advises first to contact a lawyer who will help you obtain a copy of the resolution, assess the legality of its issuance, and file a complaint with the court.
If the fine is not appealed in time, it may be transferred to the enforcement service. This threatens with the seizure of bank accounts and forced collection of funds. To avoid this, you need to timely obtain a copy of the resolution and apply to the court.
Can I appeal a fine without a lawyer?
The law allows a citizen to file a complaint on their own. This can be done in two ways:
- Through the court, after paying the court fee (1211.20 UAH in 2025).
- Through a higher authority - for example, by contacting the regional CCC.
However, practice shows that an independent appeal through the CCC rarely yields a positive result, while a trial with proper legal support has a greater chance of success.
