Court of First Instance

A court of first instance, also known as a trial court of original jurisdiction, plays a fundamental role in the legal system. In the Principality, the Court of First Instance is a collegiate court that handles both civil and criminal cases, with judges possessing expertise in both areas.

The Court of First Instance takes on civil or commercial cases that fall outside the jurisdiction of the Justice of the Peace, based on their nature or value. Additionally, it is the primary court in administrative matters, hearing cases that do not fall within the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court or other tribunals as stipulated by the constitution or by law.

On appeal, the Court of First Instance reviews judgments made at the first instance level by the Justice of the Peace, as well as arbitration awards in civil or commercial matters. It also has jurisdiction over other judgments as defined by law.