• Text Size
• Print
• Email

  From:
  

  To:
  

  Hey! Check out this news page: https://www.thebackgroundinvestigator.com/Articles/The-hierarchy-of-the-Colombia-Judiciary/3006/index.php.

  SendCancel

International News

The hierarchy of the Colombia Judiciary

January 14, 2025 posted by Steve Brownstein

Colombia's court system is a bit unique because it doesn't have a single highest court. Instead, it has four High Courts, each with supreme authority in its own area of law. Below these are the lower courts.

• Here's a breakdown of the hierarchy:

  1. High Courts

  • Constitutional Court: This court is the highest authority on constitutional matters. It interprets the constitution, protects fundamental rights, and reviews the constitutionality of laws.  
  • Supreme Court of Justice: This is the highest court for most legal disputes, including criminal, civil, and labor cases. It also oversees the lower courts in these areas.  
  • Council of State: This court handles administrative law cases, meaning disputes involving government actions and decisions.  
  • Superior Council of Judicature: This court is responsible for judicial discipline and administration. It oversees the appointment and conduct of judges.  

  2. Lower Courts

  These courts handle the initial trials and hearings in different types of cases.

  • Ordinary Jurisdiction:
    • Superior Tribunals: These are regional appellate courts that review decisions from lower courts.  
    • Circuit Courts: Handle more serious cases or those with higher monetary value.
    • Municipal Courts: Handle minor offenses and civil cases.
    • Administrative Courts: These courts handle cases related to administrative law at the regional level.

  Important Notes:

  • Special Jurisdictions: Colombia also has special courts for specific areas like indigenous law, military justice, and peace processes.  
  • Jurisdictional Overlap: While the four High Courts are technically equal, the Constitutional Court often has broader influence because it can rule on issues that overlap with other jurisdictions.
  • Decentralization: The lower courts are organized into judicial districts, reflecting the administrative divisions of the country.    
  • This structure aims to ensure checks and balances and provide specialized expertise in different areas of law.
•