There are four levels to the Japanese judicial system. The lowest level courts are called Summary Courts, which hear small cases and are the most prevalent type of court in Japan. The next level is occupied by the District Courts and Family Courts, which divide their jurisdiction between family related issues and other civil and criminal matters. The next level of court is called the High Court. High Courts hear appeals from the lower courts but also have a special division specifically created to hear Intellectual Property disputes. Finally, the highest court in Japan is the Supreme Court, which acts as the final recourse for appeal in certain cases.
If you have questions about the judicial system in Japan, please contact our office for a legal consultation.