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High Court in Pakistan: Definition and Key Role

The High Court is one of the most important parts of Pakistan’s judicial system. It plays a big role in solving legal disputes, protecting people’s rights, and making sure the law is followed fairly.

The High Court is where serious legal issues are discussed, and it helps people get justice when lower courts cannot solve their problems.

Understanding its duties, structure, and powers helps us know why it is so important for law and order in the country.

What is the High Court in Pakistan?

high court

The High Court in Pakistan is a key part of the country’s legal system. It is mentioned in Article 175 of the Constitution of Pakistan and works at the provincial level.

Each province has its own High Court, and there is also one in Islamabad for the federal area.

This court has the authority to handle both civil and criminal cases. It also resolves disputes about the Constitution and steps in when someone’s fundamental rights are violated.

This makes the High Court a strong institution that ensures justice and maintains the rule of law.

Types of High Courts in Pakistan

There are five High Courts in Pakistan, each responsible for a specific region:

  1. Lahore High Court – Covers Punjab province.
  2. Sindh High Court – Handles cases in Sindh province.
  3. Peshawar High Court – Responsible for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
  4. Balochistan High Court – Works for Balochistan province.
  5. Islamabad High Court – Deals with cases from the federal capital.

Each of these High Courts operates independently within its jurisdiction, ensuring justice and legal compliance in its respective area.

Also Read: Property Inheritance Law in Pakistan

Key Functions and Responsibilities of High Courts

The High Courts in Pakistan perform several important tasks. They ensure justice, interpret the Constitution, and oversee other courts.

Below are the main responsibilities of High Courts:

  1. Judicial Review: High Courts check whether laws and government actions follow the Constitution. If anything goes against it, they have the power to cancel it.
  2. Interpretation of the Constitution: They help explain the Constitution and resolve any confusion about its meaning.
  3. Appeals: High Courts handle appeals against decisions made by lower courts in both civil and criminal cases.
  4. Supervising Lower Courts: High Courts monitor and guide the working of all subordinate courts in their region to ensure efficiency and fairness.

Jurisdiction of High Courts in Pakistan

Jurisdiction of High Courts in Pakistan

High Courts have wide powers, which allow them to handle different types of legal matters. Their jurisdiction is divided into three categories:

Original Jurisdiction
This means the High Court can directly hear certain types of cases, such as writ petitions. These petitions are filed when someone’s basic rights are violated, and immediate action is required.

Appellate Jurisdiction
High Courts review and decide appeals against the decisions of lower courts. This ensures that errors in judgment are corrected and justice is served.

Supervisory Jurisdiction
High Courts oversee and manage the working of all lower courts in their province. They ensure that these courts follow legal standards and work efficiently.

Here read a detailed guide on what types of cases are heard by the High Court in Pakistan.

Importance of High Courts in the Judicial System

High Courts are a crucial part of the legal system in Pakistan. They play an essential role in ensuring fairness and justice. Here are some reasons why High Courts are so important:

  1. Upholding the Rule of Law
    High Courts make sure that everyone, including the government, follows the law. They are the guardians of justice and fairness.
  2. Protecting Rights
    They protect the rights given by the Constitution. If someone’s rights are violated, the High Court can take quick action to provide relief.
  3. Providing Justice
    By handling appeals and complex legal cases, High Courts ensure that everyone gets a fair chance to present their case and receive justice.
  4. Balancing Power
    High Courts keep a check on the actions of the government and other institutions to ensure they don’t exceed their powers.

Also Read: Court Marriage process & fees in Pakistan

FAQs About High Courts in Pakistan

1. How many High Courts are there in Pakistan?
There are five High Courts in Pakistan: Lahore, Sindh, Peshawar, Balochistan, and Islamabad High Courts.

2. Can anyone directly file a case in the High Court?
Yes, people can file cases directly in the High Court, especially if their fundamental rights are violated.

3. What kind of cases are handled by High Courts?
High Courts deal with civil, criminal, constitutional, and appellate cases. They also hear petitions related to fundamental rights.

4. How is the High Court different from the Supreme Court?
The High Court works at the provincial level, while the Supreme Court is the highest court in Pakistan and has authority over the entire country.

5. Who can become a High Court judge?
To become a High Court judge, a person must have at least 10 years of experience as a lawyer or 10 years of service as a judicial officer.

Conclusion

High Courts are a cornerstone of Pakistan’s judicial system. They ensure that justice is served, rights are protected, and the Constitution is followed.

By resolving disputes and maintaining the balance of power, High Courts help create a society based on fairness and law.

Understanding their role gives us a clearer picture of how the legal system works to support and protect citizens.

The High Court not only provides legal solutions but also stands as a symbol of hope for those seeking justice in Pakistan.

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