Magistrates Courts get expanded jurisdiction in civil, commercial cases
Judge gavel and scale in court. Library with lot of books in background
By Skika Reporter
The Judiciary has announced revised pecuniary jurisdiction limits for Magistrates Courts following the enactment of the Magistrates Courts (Amendment) Act, 2026, allowing magistrates to handle higher-value civil, land, and commercial disputes.
In a public notice dated May 20, 2026, Chief Registrar Agnes Alum said the amendments affect the filing and handling of civil, commercial, and land cases across the country.
According to the revised limits, magistrates will now have jurisdiction to hear civil matters valued at up to Shs100 million, while chief magistrates will handle matters valued at up to Shs200 million.
The changes stem from amendments to Section 206 of the Magistrates Courts Act.
“In light of the above amendment to Section 206 of the Magistrates Courts Act, the public is hereby advised to file civil, land and commercial cases in the appropriate magistrates courts in accordance with the revised pecuniary jurisdiction to promote efficient administration of justice and avoid unnecessary delays in the transition process,” the notice reads in part.
The Judiciary said the revised jurisdiction is intended to improve access to justice and ease case backlog by enabling lower courts to handle more matters that would previously have been filed in higher courts.
Court users were also encouraged to seek guidance from court registries where necessary to ensure cases are filed in the appropriate courts.
“The Judiciary appreciates your cooperation and continued support in the administration of justice,” the notice adds.
