Functions Of High Court

Different functions of a high court are mentioned in the subsections below based on power, jurisdiction, etc. for better understanding.

High Court Jurisdiction

Different types of high court jurisdictions are:

Original Jurisdiction

• The Madras, Bombay, and Calcutta High Courts have original jurisdiction in all civil and criminal cases that originate from these cities.
• These courts also enjoy an exclusive right that they are entitled to hear civil cases involving property worth over Rs.20000.
• They are also empowered to issue writs to enforce fundamental rights.
• All High Courts have original jurisdiction in cases related to will, divorce, contempt of court, and admiralty.
• High Courts also have the right to listen to election petitions.

Appellate Jurisdiction

• In civil cases: Citizens can make an appeal to the High Court against a district court’s decision.
• An appeal can also be made from the subordinate court directly if the dispute involves a value higher than Rs. 5000/- or on a question of fact or law.
• In criminal cases: It extends to cases decided by Sessions and Additional Sessions Judges in the following conditions:
  • If the sessions judge has given a judgment of imprisonment for 7 years or more.
  • If capital punishment has been awarded by the session’s judge.
• All the cases that are under the State or federal laws are also extended towards the jurisdiction of the High Court.
• In constitutional cases also, it is certified by the High Court that the case involves a substantial question of law.

Also Check: Structure of Courts In India

Powers and Functions of High Court: India’s high courts hold the highest authority for appeals in every state and union territory, serving as the top appellate courts in the country. High Courts hold appellate jurisdiction, hear appeals, and exercise original jurisdiction, particularly in constitutional matters. They issue writs, supervise lower courts, and play a vital role in interpreting laws and safeguarding constitutional principles. In this article, We have discussed the Power and Function of the High Court in India in Detail. So Let’s dive right in.