High Court (Ireland)

The High Court is one of the superior courts of Ireland. It is established under the Constitution of Ireland and exercises original jurisdiction over all matters of law and fact, civil and criminal. This means it is a court of first instance for many cases, and also has appellate jurisdiction from lower courts.

Jurisdiction:

• Original Jurisdiction: The High Court hears a wide range of cases in the first instance, including:
  • Serious criminal offences
  • Civil disputes involving significant sums of money
  • Judicial review of administrative actions
  • Constitutional challenges
  • Commercial disputes
• Appellate Jurisdiction: The High Court also hears appeals from the Circuit Court and the District Court.

Composition:

The High Court is composed of a President and a number of ordinary judges. The President of the High Court is responsible for the administration and organisation of the court. Judges of the High Court are appointed by the President of Ireland on the advice of the Government.

Relationship to Other Courts:

The High Court is subordinate to the Supreme Court of Ireland, which is the court of final appeal in the Irish legal system. Appeals from the High Court can be made to the Supreme Court. The High Court is superior to the Circuit Court and the District Court.

Constitutional Role:

The High Court plays a crucial role in upholding the Constitution of Ireland. It has the power to declare legislation unconstitutional and to protect the fundamental rights of citizens.

Key Points:

• Superior court of original and appellate jurisdiction.
• Deals with significant legal matters.
• Subject to the Supreme Court's appellate jurisdiction.
• Plays a vital role in constitutional law.