A simplified overview of the Indian judiciary, from District Courts to the Supreme Court.
Structure of Indian Courts
India follows a three-tier court system:
1. Supreme Court of India
- Highest court of appeal
- Located in New Delhi
- Headed by the Chief Justice of India
- Has original, appellate, and advisory jurisdiction
2. High Courts
- One for each state (or group of states)
- 25 High Courts across India
- Handles appeals from lower courts and writ petitions
3. District Courts
- Present in every district
- Divided into Civil and Criminal courts
- First point of contact for most legal matters
Types of Cases
- Civil Cases — Property disputes, contract issues, family matters
- Criminal Cases — Theft, assault, fraud, murder
- Constitutional Cases — Fundamental rights violations
How to Approach a Court
- Consult a lawyer
- File the appropriate petition/complaint
- Pay court fees
- Attend hearings