The High Court is made up of specialist divisions that hear particular types of cases, and administrative offices that support its work..
High Court divisions
High Court offices
- Central Office of the High Court
- Office of the Examiner of the High Court
- Office of Wards of Court
- Office of the Legal Costs Adjudicators
- Probate Office
- Bankruptcy Office
Central Criminal Court
The High Court exercising its criminal jurisdiction is known as the Central Criminal Court. It hears serious criminal trials outside the jurisdiction of the Circuit Court, including murder, rape, and certain offences under the Competition Act 2002.
Commercial Court
The Commercial Court deals with business disputes including breach of contract, property, IT, competition, insolvency, and intellectual property matters. Proceedings generally must have a commercial dimension and a value of at least €1,000,000.
Planning and Environment Court
The Planning and Environment Court deals with cases concerning planning, strategic infrastructure, and environmental law.
High Court offices
Central Office of the High Court
The Central Office is the main filing and administrative office for the High Court. You can file documents, make applications, and contact staff for assistance.
Office of the Examiner of the High Court
The Office of the Examiner supports High Court cases involving company law and insolvency matters, including liquidations and receiverships.
Office of Wards of Court
This office manages matters relating to wardship and enduring powers of attorney.
Office of the Legal Costs Adjudicators
Formerly known as the Taxing Masters’ Office, this office deals with the adjudication of legal costs between parties.
Probate Office
The Probate Office manages applications for probate, letters of administration, and other matters concerning the estates of deceased persons.
Deed Poll
The Deed Poll service is managed by the Central Office of the High Court. It allows a person to legally change their name by enrolling a deed poll.
Bankruptcy Office
The Bankruptcy Office processes bankruptcy applications, adjudications, and related High Court orders concerning insolvency.
