History of the District Court Colombo

The History of the District Court of Colombo

The Colombo District Court is situated within the historic Hulftsdorp Court Complex, a landmark of Sri Lanka's judicial heritage, located a short distance from Pettah, Colombo's bustling commercial centre.

The site has been associated with the administration of Justice for over three centuries, with some buildings within the complex tracing their origins to the mid-seventeenth century. Owing to its historical and architectural significance, the Hulftsdorp Court Complex forms part of an archaeologically protected monument.

court room

Colonial Era

The systematic judicial divisions were introduced during Dutch Rule, and the British significantly reformed the judicial system. One of the most significant milestones in the evolution of the Sri Lankan judiciary was the introduction of the Royal Charter of Judge of 1801 by King George III. District Courts were established as courts of first instance under the Charter of Judge of 1833 during the British administration. In 1889, the Courts Ordinance consolidated and reformed the Administration of Justice system in Sri Lanka, providing a structural framework for the District Court with civil jurisdiction.

Modern Era

Today, they operate under the provisions of the Judicature Act No. 2 of 1978, exercising jurisdiction over a broad range of civil matters. In keeping with this mandate, the Colombo District Court exercises jurisdiction over commercial, testamentary, trust, family, and property matters arising within the Judicial District of Colombo.