1. District Court

• The District Court is the lowest court in Ireland and deals with minor civil and criminal matters. 
• The business of the District Court can be divided into four categories: – criminal, civil, family law and licensing.
• The civil jurisdiction of the District Court in contract and most other matters is where the claim or award does not exceed €15,000.
• Suitable for small claims and minor offences. 

2. Circuit Court

• The Circuit Court has broader jurisdiction than the District Court, handling more serious civil and criminal matters.
• The work can be divided into four main areas: civil, criminal, family law and jury service.
• Deals with civil claims between €15,000 and €75,000 (or up to €60,000 for personal injury claims). The Circuit Court also hears appeals from the District Court.
• Suitable for intermediate-level claims.
• Provides a venue for appeals from the District Court, ensuring a review mechanism.

3. High Court

• The High Court is a superior court with full original jurisdiction to hear any civil or criminal matter.
• Deals with civil claims exceeding €75,000 (€60,000 for personal injury claims). Handles complex cases involving significant legal questions or large sums of money.
• Suitable for high-value and complex claims.
• Provides judicial review to ensure legality in public administration and lower court decisions.

4. Court of Appeal

• The Court of Appeal hears appeals from the High Court in civil cases. It was established to reduce the burden on the Supreme Court and provide a faster appeals process.
• Provides a critical appellate review, ensuring errors in High Court decisions can be corrected.
• Plays a vital role in the development and clarification of the law.

5. Supreme Court

• The Supreme Court is the highest court in Ireland and hears appeals from the Court of Appeal or ‘leapfrog’ appeals from the High Court. It has final appellate jurisdiction.
• Deals with cases of exceptional public importance or where the interests of justice require it.
• Has the authority to determine the constitutionality of laws and acts of the state.
• Handles cases with significant legal implications, often setting important precedents.
• Cases are heard by three, five or, in exceptional circumstances, seven judges.