Courts of Law

PRIMARY COURTS

Primary Courts are established under the Judicature Act, No. 2 of 1978. There are seven Primary Courts functioning in Anamaduwa, Angunukolapelessa, Kandy, Mallakam, Pilessa, Wellawaya and Wennappuwa. In the other divisions, the Magistrate’s Courts exercise the jurisdiction of the Primary Courts.

A Primary Court is vested with the following jurisdiction –

*   Original civil jurisdiction where the debt, damage, demand or claim dos not exceed Rs. 1,500 ;

*   The enforcement of Bye-Laws of Local Authorities and matters relating to recovery of revenue of such Authorities ;

*   Exclusive criminal jurisdiction in respect of offences prescribed by the Minister by Regulation ;

*  Offences in violation of provisions of any Act or subsidiary legislation in respect of which jurisdiction is vested ;  
 

The Primary Courts Procedure Act, No. 44 of 1980 regulates the procedure in Primary Courts and makes provision for connected matters.  

All Judges of the Primary Court are appointed by the Judicial Service Commission which is also vested with the power of dismissal and disciplinary control of the Judges.

The age of retirement of Judges of Primary Courts is as provided for in the Public and Judicial Officers (Retirement) Ordinance.  

A revision of an Order made by a Primary Court could be made to the High Court of the Province.