The structure in Northern Ireland isn’t too dissimilar to the England and Wales system.  However, there are some differences:

• Appeals from the Magistrates’ Court are directed to the County Court, instead of the Crown Court.

• There is no Jury in cases that involve terrorist-type offences, and only the Judge decides whether the defendant is guilty or not.

• The Court of Appeal is located in Belfast, at the Royal Courts of Justice, and hears appeals in criminal matters referred by the Crown Court, as well as civil matters that have been referred by the High Court.

• County Court judges may sit in the Crown Court to hear criminal cases. District Judges deal only with civil cases.

The Structure of the Northern Ireland Courts Service (starting from the top)

The Supreme Court

The Supreme Court is the final court of appeal in the United Kingdom. It hears appeals on points of law in cases of major importance.

The Court of Appeal

The Court of Appeal hears appeals on points of law in civil and criminal cases from all courts.

The High Court

The High Court hears complex or important civil cases in three Divisions:
• Queens Bench Division
• Chancery Division
• Family Division
The High Court also hears appeals from County Courts

The Crown Court

The Crown Court hears all serious criminal cases

County Courts (Including Family Care Centres)

These courts hear a wide range of civil actions and appeals from Magistrates Courts. Within the County Courts are the Small Claims Courts who hear consumer claims and minor civil cases.

Magistrate Courts (Including Youth Courts and Family Proceedings Courts)

Magistrates Courts conduct preliminary hearings in more serious criminal cases. They also hear and determine less serious criminal cases, cases involving juveniles, and some civil and domestic cases including family proceedings.

Coroners Courts

Coroners Courts investigate the circumstances of sudden, violent or unnatural deaths.

The Enforcement of Judgements Office

This department enforces money and other judgements.