The structure of Uganda's courts, explained
How Uganda's court hierarchy fits together — from the magistrates' courts up to the Supreme Court — and which court decides what.
Uganda's judicature is a hierarchy. Knowing where a decision sits tells you how much weight it carries.
Supreme Court (UGSC)
The final appellate court. Its decisions bind every court below it. It also hears presidential-election petitions.
Court of Appeal (UGCA) / Constitutional Court (UGCC)
The same bench sits as the Court of Appeal for ordinary appeals and as the Constitutional Court when interpreting the Constitution under Article 137.
High Court (UGHC)
Unlimited original jurisdiction, organised into divisions (Civil, Criminal, Commercial, Family, Land, Anti-Corruption, International Crimes). Most reported first-instance authority comes from here.
Subordinate courts
Chief Magistrates' and Magistrates' courts handle the bulk of everyday civil and criminal matters, subject to appeal to the High Court.
Wakilii returns cited answers grounded in Ugandan statutes and case law.
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