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Supreme Court of Appeal of South Africa

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description Supreme Court of Appeal of South Africa Overview

The Supreme Court of Appeal of South Africa is the country's highest court for non-constitutional matters. Permanently seated in Bloemfontein, it serves as the intermediate appellate court and hears appeals from all High Court divisions. The court was established to handle cases that do not pertain to the interpretation of the Constitution, a role largely reserved for the Constitutional Court. It plays a critical role in the development of South African common law.

help Supreme Court of Appeal of South Africa FAQ

Where is South Africa's Supreme Court of Appeal located?

The court is permanently seated in Bloemfontein in the Free State. This judicial role is one reason Bloemfontein has traditionally been described as South Africa's judicial capital.

Is the Supreme Court of Appeal South Africa's highest court?

The Constitutional Court is now the country's apex court and may hear constitutional and other matters. The Supreme Court of Appeal remains the principal appellate court below it for appeals from High Court divisions.

Does the Supreme Court of Appeal hold trials?

No. It ordinarily reviews records and legal arguments from cases already decided in a High Court rather than hearing witnesses in a new trial. Appeals are generally decided by panels of three or five judges.

What was the Supreme Court of Appeal called before 1997?

Its predecessor was the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of South Africa. The post-apartheid court structure and the Constitution of 1996 established the present name and role.

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