1. How do I get a copy of a court order?
When a judge or the Master of the High Court has made an order, the order setting out the details is prepared and perfected (signed) by a Registrar.
Parties to a case or solicitors can request both plain and attested (signed and certified) copies of orders. For most purposes, plain copies are acceptable. However, an attested copy, which attracts court stamp duty - currently €15.00, is required for some purposes.
If you are representing yourself you can request a copy of an order by email. If you are represented by a solicitor, your solicitor must make the request. The email must include the High Court record number, the title of the case, date of the order and, in the case of solicitors, the party they represent.
To request a plain copy, email: [email protected].
To request an attested copy order (e.g. for an official purpose or appeal), you must book an appointment online with the Central Office and attend in person via the online booking system.
Customers should ensure:
- The order has been perfected by checking the High Court Search
- A fee card of €15 per order has been obtained from the Stamping Office
- Photographic ID is available (may be requested)
- They have the High Court record number, case title and date of order(s) being requested
2. How do I contact a registrar?
Email: [email protected]. Include “for the attention of the registrar” in the subject line, and provide the record number, case title, date of order and the party you represent.
3. How do I get a copy of a document from the court file?
If self-represented you can make the request. If represented, your solicitor must do so. If the case has concluded you can request a copy document. Court stamp duty is payable - currently €15.00 per document. Requests must be made in person at the Central Office and collected there. Processing can take 2–3 working days.
4. How do I get a copy of a written judgment?
Judgments can be downloaded free of charge from this website. For an attested copy (e.g. for an appeal), email [email protected]. Include record number, case title and judgment date. Stamp duty - currently €14.00 plus €1.00 for every four pages - is payable. Collection in person is required with photographic ID if self-represented.
5. Appealing a High Court Order to the Court of Appeal
An order of the High Court can be appealed to the Court of Appeal. See Order 86A of the Rules of the Superior Courts.
6. Appeal of order of the Master of the High Court
An order of the Master of the High Court can be appealed to the High Court. File a notice of motion and affidavit in the Central Office. Appeals must be filed within six days. See Order 63 Rule 9.
7. How do I get a transcript of a Digital Audio Recording?
Applications must be made to the judge who heard the matter by notice of motion and affidavit. See S.I. No. 101 of 2013. If granted, transcripts can be ordered from Epiq Global Limited: [email protected], Tel: 01 571 0220.
8. Court awards to children and accessing awards when turning 18
Money awarded to a child is invested until they turn 18 unless otherwise directed. Requests for earlier release must be made by the “next friend” with supporting documents. Apply by email ([email protected]) with subject line “Minor Request” or by post to: Minor Payments, Central Office, High Court, Four Courts, Dublin 7.
Requests are usually considered by the Master. Payment, if approved, is arranged by the Courts Service Accountant’s Office. On reaching 18, applications go directly to the Courts Service Accountant’s Office.
9. Remitting the case to the Circuit Court
When an order remits a case, the file is transferred to the relevant Circuit Court office once perfected.
10. Orders to be entered in the Central Office
Some High Court orders must be entered in the Central Office with correct documentation, e.g. when parties are joined or titles amended. The original summons should be brought to the office. See Rules of the Superior Courts.
