History of the Civil Appellate High Court

Strengthening the efficiency of the civil justice system in Sri Lanka.

Establishment of the Court

The Civil Appellate High Court of Colombo was established on 30 June 2007 under Section 5A of the High Court of the Provinces (Special Provisions) (Amendment) Act No. 54 of 2006 with the principal objective of expediting the determination of civil appeals arising from the District Courts and Family Courts.

Exercising both appellate and revisionary jurisdiction, the Court was created as part of a broader judicial reform aimed at strengthening the efficiency of the civil justice system and alleviating the growing burden of civil litigation that was previously concentrated in the Court of Appeal of Sri Lanka.

Historical Foundations

Legislative Milestone

Act No. 54 of 2006

The statutory foundation for expediting civil appeals and expanding regional appellate jurisdiction.

A Specialized Forum for Adjudication

Since its establishment, the Civil Appellate High Court has played a pivotal role in ensuring the timely and effective resolution of civil disputes by providing a specialized forum dedicated to appellate adjudication.

Civil Appellate High Court Building The Civil Appellate High Court

Commitment to Judicial Efficiency

Through its commitment to judicial efficiency, procedural fairness, and the consistent application of the law, the Court contributes significantly to the administration of justice by reducing the backlog of civil cases and facilitating the prompt disposal of appeals.

Vision of the Court

The vision of the Court is to uphold the rule of law by delivering reasoned, impartial, and expeditious decisions while strengthening public confidence in the appellate process and the civil justice system of Sri Lanka.