The judicial system is based on a composite of English common law, Koranic law, and customary law. It accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations, and includes subsidiary legislative instruments enacted locally. The constitution provides for an independent judiciary, and although the courts are not totally free from influence of the executive branch, they have demonstrated their independence on occasion.

The Supreme Court, presided over by a Chief Justice, has both civil and criminal jurisdiction. Formerly, appeals from any decision of the Supreme Court went before the Court of Appeals, whose judgments could be taken to the UK Privy Council. The January 1997 constitution provided for a reconfiguration of the courts with the Supreme Court replacing the Privy Council.

Muslim courts apply Shari'ah law in certain cases involving Muslim citizens, and in traditional matters, Chiefs rule on customary law and local affairs. District tribunals serve as appeals courts in cases of tribal law and custom. Cases of first instance in criminal and civil matters are handled by administrative officers who function as magistrates in courts located in each of the five administrative regions and Banjul.

Vision Statement

Bringing justice to the doorstep of all in an efficient and effective system that upholds the rule of law and guarantees human rights.

Mission Statement

To advance the course of justice and the rule of law by ensuring a free fair and speedy dispensation of justice by an efficient independent judiciary with a high quality human resource base that will command the support and confidence of the people.

Mandate

• ·Administration and Delivery of Justice and
• ·Exercise of the judicial power of the State

Core Functions

• Adjudication of disputes through the due process of Law
• Administration of courts, registries, processes, directives & procedures
• Enforcement of decisions, orders, rulings and judgments