Abu Dhabi Judicial Department Establishes “One-Day Court”
In alignment with the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department’s vision for prompt justice, Decision No. (20) of 2024 was issued to establish the One-Day Court, aiming to simplify litigation procedures and ensure swift resolution of minor claims not exceeding AED 1,000,000.
What is the One-Day Court?
The One-Day Court is a specialized judicial circuit designated to handle:
- Civil, commercial, and labor disputes.
- Wage and salary claims.
- Signature verification lawsuits regardless of value.
Excluded from its jurisdiction are:
- Administrative disputes.
- Urgent matters.
- Payment order applications.
The assignment of cases to these circuits is determined by the Judicial Council, based on recommendations from the Judicial Inspection Department.
Filing Simple Claims
If a technical expert is required, the plaintiff must deposit an expert fee equal to 3% of the claim amount (minimum AED 2,000). The presiding judge may waive or adjust this requirement depending on the case.
Fast-Track Hearing Scheduling
The Case Management Office must schedule the first hearing within 15 days from registration. An extension for an additional 15 days is allowed upon judicial approval. If an expert is appointed, the hearing must be scheduled within 3 days from submission of the expert report.
Single-Session Judgment
The court must decide on the case in a single session. Expert opinions may be presented orally in court and recorded in the minutes. Judgments should include the plaintiff’s claims, a brief of the parties’ arguments, the reasoning, and the operative part—this will not be considered a deficiency.
Appealing the Judgment
- If the claim falls within the final jurisdictional limit set under Article (29) of the Civil Procedure Law (below AED 50,000), it may not be appealed unless per Article (160).
- For claims exceeding this limit, an appeal can be filed with the competent appellate court under the standard appeal procedures.
Appeal Ruling Procedure
The Court of Appeal will rule in consultation chambers within two weeks of the notice of appeal. The appeal will not be admitted to cassation (Court of Cassation) if the claim value does not exceed AED 500,000, as per Article 160 of the Civil Procedure Law.
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