Jurisdiction

Powers & Jurisdiction

The High Court of the Republic of Sri Lanka is vested with both original and appellate jurisdiction. Established under Article 154P of the Constitution, it serves as the highest court of first instance for serious criminal offenses and handles specialized commercial and civil appellate matters across the provinces.

Original Criminal Jurisdiction

The High Court exercises original jurisdiction over serious crimes such as murder, treason, rape, and major financial frauds. Trials may be conducted before a single justice or, in special circumstances, before a Trial-at-Bar consisting of three justice.

Civil Appellate Jurisdiction

The Civil Appellate High Court hears and determines appeals arising from judgments, decrees, and orders of the District Courts and Family Courts within the respective province, ensuring the correct application of civil law.

Commercial Jurisdiction

The High Court of the Western Province sitting in Colombo (Commercial High Court) is specially empowered to hear and determine civil actions of a commercial nature, including disputes over contracts, intellectual property, and corporate matters exceeding a specified financial threshold.

Revisionary & Supervisory

The High Court holds revisionary powers over the proceedings of Magistrate's Courts, Primary Courts, and Labour Tribunals within its province. It may call for records and revise orders to prevent miscarriages of justice.

Writ Jurisdiction

Provincial High Courts have the power to issue writs (such as certiorari, prohibition, procedendo, mandamus, and quo warranto) in respect of any matter set out in the Provincial Council List, exercising control over provincial administrative bodies.

Admiralty Jurisdiction

The High Court sitting in Colombo has exclusive Admiralty Jurisdiction to hear and determine actions concerning maritime claims, shipping disputes, and vessel arrests in accordance with the Admiralty Jurisdiction Act.

Note: The jurisdiction of the High Court is subject to the provisions of the Constitution and written laws. Judgments of the High Court can be appealed to the Court of Appeal or, in certain circumstances, directly to the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka.