Judiciary of Sri Lanka

The Constitution of Sri Lanka defines courts as independent institutions within the traditional framework of checks and balances.

Although provisions are there for trials for serious offences to be held before a jury, at present all cases are heard before professional judges.

Local forms of civil and criminal law as well as a system of courts, existed for centuries prior to the European colonization.

Judges are appointed by the President with the nomination of the Parliamentary Council and serve for a lifetime period (65).

[2] It has jurisdiction of; Every Magistrate's Court is vested with original criminal jurisdiction (other than in respect of offenses upon indictment in the High Court) and is ordinarily empowered to impose sentences up to a fine of Rs.

1,500 and/or 2 years rigorous/simple imprisonment unless power is vested in the Magistrate's Court to impose higher penalties by special provision.

There are seven Primary Courts, located in Anamaduwa, Angunukolapelessa, Kandy, Mallakam, Pilessa, Wellawaya and Wennappuwa.

Judges of the High Court are appointed by the President on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission.

However the President is not bound to accept the nomination of the Parliamentary Council or follow the advice of the Judicial Service Commission and may decide to appoint any other individual.

Today the powers of the position is limited to administer oaths, affirmations and attesting documents.

Salaries of all Judges are paid by consolidated fund and the District Judges and Magistrates are paid by the Ministry of Justice and they are entitled for a government pension on retirement and government duty free permits.

[13] The Sri Lankan Government has stated that it has no intention of joining the International Criminal Court.