Judicial System of Papua New Guinea

Supreme court: Supreme Court of Papua New Guinea

Ministry: Justice

The justice system was based on British models, but is in accord with traditional values, particularly with respect to customary land rights.

The Supreme Court is both the final court of appeal and the constitutional court. The National Court has original jurisdiction in the most serious civil and criminal cases. Appeals from the National Court are heard by the Supreme Court. The lower courts comprise district, local and village courts (magistrates’ courts dealing with certain customary matters). There are also special courts concerned with family law, customary land disputes and civil cases relating to the mining sector.