Department of Justice and EqualityCivil Law Reform and Courts Policy
The role of Civil Law Reform Division is to prepare laws relating to civil law matters that are not covered by any other specific governmental department, as well as servicing the legislative needs of other divisions within the Department of Justice and Equality.
We keep areas of the civil law under review so as to identify the potential for reform and development.
Members of staff from the division participate in international meetings at the European Union, Council of Europe and United Nations in relation to civil law matters which deal with the drawing up of agreements, treaties and other international instruments on matters of international common interest.
The role of Courts Policy Division is to carry out ministerial functions in relation to the courts.
We are also responsible for all aspects of policy, secondary legislation, financing and management of the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme.
The Courts Service of Ireland was established in 1999 in accordance with the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998. The statutory framework of the Courts Service establishes clear lines of accountability, responsibility and transparency. Under the Act, responsibility for the management of the courts system is conferred on the Courts Service.
Our Courts Policy division is responsible for discharging Ministerial functions in relation to the courts, including:
- constitutional and legislative matters related to judicial appointments and assignments the making of Rules of Court
- the preparation of material in relation to the Minister's accountability to the Dáil on court issues
We are also responsible for policy underlying courts-related legislation.
We examine and consider proposals from the Courts Service regarding financial and staffing matters and major court development programmes in the IT and building areas and advises the Minister in relation to the provision and utilisation of resources.
We also ensure that the Courts Service is appropriately resourced and that the necessary reporting systems are in place to enable the Minister to discharge her responsibility in regard to the Service.
