The Civil Appellate High Court

The Civil Appellate High Court exercises appellate jurisdiction over civil cases decided by District Courts and Magistrate Courts (Civil), functioning as a vital tier in the administration of civil justice in Sri Lanka.

Historical Background

Prior to the 13th Amendment and subsequent legislation, all civil appeals from District Courts were heard by the Court of Appeal in Colombo. To address case backlogs and provide justice closer to the litigant's residence, the Provincial High Courts were vested with Civil Appellate Jurisdiction under Act No. 54 of 2006.

Jurisdiction & Powers

• Appeals from District Courts: The Court hears final appeals regarding land disputes, partition actions, money recovery, and divorce cases decided by the District Courts within the province.
• Family Law: Appeals regarding custody, maintenance, and divorce.
• Restitutio in Integrum: Applications for revision of orders made by the lower civil courts.
• Leave to Appeal: Applications seeking leave to appeal from interim orders of the District Courts.