District Court

The District Court is the main court of summary jurisdiction in Ireland. It has responsibility for hearing minor criminal matters, small civil claims, liquor licensing, and certain family law applications. It is also responsible for indicting the accused and sending them forward for trial at the Circuit Court and Central Criminal Court. Jurisdiction The civil jurisdiction is limited to damages not exceeding €15,000; the court has no equitable jurisdiction. The court has the power to renew licences for the sale of intoxicating liquor and grant licences for lotteries. The family jurisdiction of the court includes the power to award guardianship, grant protection or barring orders, and award maintenance of up to €150 a week per child or €500 per week for a spouse.