“Justice is blind,” they say. That is especially true here at Das Court. It is Abu Dhabi’s cornerstone of law.
Das Court stands as a testament to the judicial system’s importance. It maintains justice within the Emirate. The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department oversees Das Court and the judicial process. This department formed on December 17, 2007.
Now, let’s delve into the structure of Das Court. It operates on three levels. These are Courts of First Instance, Courts of Appeal, and the Court of Cassation. Each court handles different stages of legal proceedings.
The Courts of First Instance possess broad jurisdiction. They hear most cases initially filed in Abu Dhabi. These courts consist of both major and minor chambers. Major chambers have three judges. Minor chambers have one judge. These are the largest courts in the UAE.
Appeals form a critical part of the justice system. Abu Dhabi Judicial Department embraces this concept. Litigants can challenge judgments from the first instance court. The Court of Appeal has multiple chambers. Each chamber has three judges. They review appealed judgments. These courts cover civil, commercial, labor, and other case types.
The Court of Cassation is the highest judicial authority. It reviews challenges to judgments from the Courts of Appeal. This court also resolves jurisdictional disputes. It can even assess the accountability of senior executives.
Specialized courts exist within Das Court. These address specific types of disputes. Construction, banking, and intellectual property are examples. These specialized chambers aim to resolve cases more efficiently. A unique agreement exists with the International Council of Arbitration for Sport. This led to establishing a center for the Court of Arbitration for Sports here. It marks the first international seat outside Lausanne, Switzerland.
Consider the Abu Dhabi Criminal Court. It was established in 2018. It hears criminal cases. Felonies, misdemeanors, and offenses fall under its jurisdiction.
The Abu Dhabi Commercial Court addresses business-related disputes. It handles commercial matters, even if only one party considers it commercial. This court also enforces foreign judgments related to commercial disputes.
The Abu Dhabi Labour Court focuses on employment claims. It handles cases involving laborers. The court also includes a fast-track chamber for minor labor cases.
Since 2012, Abu Dhabi hosts a seat of the Court of Arbitration for Sports. This highlights the city’s role in international dispute resolution.
Das Court also includes Personal Status and Inheritance Chambers for Non-Muslims. These chambers handle relevant cases for non-Muslim individuals.
The Enforcement Division ensures that judgments are carried out. It enforces court orders and reconciliation agreements.
Das Court reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to a fair and effective legal system. Its structure and specialized courts contribute to justice in the Emirate.