Structure of the Courts

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Supreme Court The court of final appeal in civil and criminal matters. Appeals may be made only where the Court grants permission in limited circumstances as set out in the Constitution. Can decide on the constitutionality of a bill if referred to it by the President. Can determine a question of the permanent incapacity of the President if it arises. Most cases are dealt with by three judges though up to seven judges can sit. Court of Appeal Deals with appeals from the High Court in High Court Central Criminal Court civil cases and appeals from the Circuit Criminal Court, the Central Criminal Court, Has full original jurisdiction in, and power to Criminal division of the High Court. or the Special Criminal Court in criminal determine, all matters, whether of law or fact, civil Tries serious crime including murder, cases. Cases are dealt with by three judges. and criminal. rape, treason and piracy. Power to determine the validity of any law having regard to the Constitution. Appeal court from the Circuit Court in civil matters. Special Criminal Court Established for the trial of offences in cases where it is determined that the ordinary courts are inadequate to secure the effective administration of justice and the preservation of Circuit Court public peace and order. Cases are dealt with by Court of limited and local jurisdiction organised on a regional basis. three judges. Civil: Claims up to the value of €75,0000. Family Law: Divorce, judicial separation, nullity and other ancillary matters. Criminal: Jury trial of offences other than those triable in the District Court Central Criminal Court. Court of limited and local jurisdiction organised on a local basis. Appeal court from the District Court in all matters. Civil: Claims up to the value of €15,000. Family law: Maintenance, custody, access and domestic violence. Criminal: Non-jury trial of offences including most road traffic offences. The Small Claims Procedure operates within the District Court. Denotes appeals structure.

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