A method and system for decoding control data in GSM-based systems using inherent redundancy and physical constraints are presented. At least one estimated GSM-based bit sequence may be selected by performing searches that start from trellis junctions determined by the decoding algorithm. The estimated bit sequences may be selected based on corresponding redundancy verification parameters. At least one physical constraint test may be performed on the selected estimated GSM-based bit sequences to select a decoded output GSM-based bit sequence. A multilayer decoding process may comprise a burst process and a frame process. Results from a first burst process may be utilized to generate a decoded GSM bit sequence in the frame process. The frame process may utilize redundancy information and physical constraints to improve the performance of a decoding algorithm.