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The Judiciary of Kenya

The Judiciary is one of the three independent arms of government under Chapter 10 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010. It interprets the law, protects the Constitution, and delivers justice to all Kenyans.

Justice Be Our Shield and Defender
Superior Courts
5 courts
Subordinate Courts
Magistrates, Kadhis & Tribunals
Leadership
Chief Justice

Superior Courts

Supreme Court
Highest court in Kenya. Final interpreter of the Constitution. Handles presidential election disputes and matters of general public importance.
Court of Appeal
Hears appeals from the High Court and other superior courts.
High Court
Unlimited original jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters. Supervisory role over subordinate courts.
Employment & Labour Relations Court (ELRC)
Specialised court handling all employment and labour disputes.
Environment & Land Court (ELC)
Specialised court for land, environment, and natural resources matters.

Subordinate Courts

Magistrates’ Courts
Handle the majority of criminal and civil cases across Kenya.
Kadhis’ Courts
Deal with Muslim personal law (marriage, divorce, inheritance).
Small Claims Court & Tribunals
Fast-track resolution for minor disputes and specialised matters.

Administration & Leadership

Key Administrative Offices
  • Office of the Chief Justice
  • Office of the Deputy Chief Justice
  • Office of the Chief Registrar of Judiciary
  • Office of the President of the Court of Appeal
  • Office of the Principal Judge of the High Court
  • Office of the Principal Judge, ELRC
  • Office of the Presiding Judge, ELC
  • Chief of Staff, Office of the Chief Justice
  • Office of the Judiciary Ombudsman
Office of Registrars
  • Registrar, Supreme Court
  • Registrar, Court of Appeal
  • Registrar, High Court
  • Registrar, Employment & Labour Relations Court
  • Registrar, Environment & Land Court
  • Registrar, Magistrates’ Courts
  • Registrar, Small Claims Court
  • Registrar, Tribunals
  • Registrar, Court Annexed Mediation
  • Registrar, Kenya Judiciary Academy
Directorates & Support Units
  • Directorate of Human Resource Management & Development
  • Directorate of Planning & Organisational Performance
  • Directorate of ICT
  • Directorate of Finance & Accounts
  • Directorate of Supply Chain Management
  • Directorate of Public Affairs & Communication
  • Directorate of Administration & Security Services
  • Department of Construction & Maintenance Works
  • Information & Record Management Unit

View detailed administration and leadership structure →

Understand the appeals process from Magistrates’ Court to Supreme Court →