The superior court of first instance, with exclusive original jurisdiction on constitutional interpretation under Article 54. It hears appeals from the Nauru Lands Committee, which determines Nauruan land ownership and inheritance under custom, and has decided a substantial body of refugee and immigration litigation arising from the regional processing arrangements hosted on the island.
How the court is constituted
- Tier
- first instance
- Court type
- Superior court of general jurisdiction
- Jurisdiction
- Unlimited original jurisdiction, exclusive original jurisdiction on constitutional interpretation, judicial review, and appeals from the District Court and the Nauru Lands Committee.
- Seat
- Yaren
- Established
- 1968
- Composition
- The Chief Justice and judges of the Supreme Court, sitting alone; several are non-resident.
- Appointment
- Appointed by the President under the Courts Act.
- Languages
- English, Nauruan
Where an appeal goes next
Appeal to the Nauru Court of Appeal.
Filing at this court
- Constitutional question
- Article 54 reference or originating application
- Appeal from the Lands Committee
- Within 21 days of the Committee's decision being published
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