Privy Council UK

Appellate Courts

Appeals from the High Court are to the Court of Appeal in Fiji, or in the ultimate case, to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in UK.

Court of Appeal (Fiji)

High Courts

The High Court has jurisdiction to consider appeals from the magistrates’ courts and the Island Courts and has unlimited original jurisdiction in civil and criminal cases.

High Court

First Instance Courts

The Magistrates' Court consists of a senior magistrate who visits Tuvalu two or three times a year to hear the more serious cases and appeals. The Court has jurisdiction to hear civil cases involving up to $10,000.

Magistrates' Court

Minor Courts Justices of the Peace

The eight Island Courts have limited jurisdiction over both Tuvaluans and non-Tuvaluans in civil and criminal matters. The courts have jurisdiction within the boundaries of the island on which they are established and over inland and adjacent waters. The court hears cases with claims in contract and tort where the amount involved does not exceed $60. Criminial jurisdiction is to offences with a maximum punishment fine of $100 and/or a period of imprisonment of six months.

Island Courts

Other Courts

Lands Court
Lands Court Appeal Panel

Jurisprudence (Case Law)

High Court of Tuvalu Decisions (PACLii)