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The judiciary of Jamaica is based on the judiciary of the United Kingdom.[1] The courts are organized at four levels, with additional provision for appeal to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in London. The Court of Appeal is the highest appellate court. The Supreme Court has unlimited jurisdiction in all cases, and sits as the Circuit Court to try criminal cases. The Parish Court (formerly known as the Resident Magistrate's court) in each parish hears both criminal and civil cases, excluding grave offences. The Petty Sessions are held under Justices of the Peace, with power to hear minor crimes.[2][3]
Jamaica is a common law jurisdiction, in which precedents from English law and British Commonwealth tradition may be taken into account.
- ^ "Background Note: Jamaica". U.S. Department of State. Retrieved 12 June 2009.
- ^ "The Annual Court Report - 2002-03" (PDF). Ministry of Justice of Jamaica. 2004. Retrieved 12 June 2009.
- ^ Hudson, Rex A.; Seyler, Daniel J. (1989). "Jamaica". In Meditz, Sandra W.; Hanratty, Dennis M. (eds.). Islands of the Commonwealth Caribbean. Washington, D.C.: Federal Research Division, Library of Congress. LCC F2131.I85 1989. Retrieved 12 June 2009.