After court in the High Court

How to get a copy of a court order

When a judge or the master of the High Court makes an order, it is prepared and signed by a registrar.

  • Requesting copies
    • Plain copy – suitable for most purposes
    • Attested copy – required for official purposes and costs €15 in court stamp duty
  • How to request a copy:
    • Plain copy – email [email protected] with the case details.
    • Attested copy – book an appointment online with the central office under "High Court attested orders and documents collection." Attend in person with:
      • Confirmation that the order is perfected (check High Court search)
      • A fee card (€15 per order) from the stamping office
      • Photographic ID (may be required)
      • High Court record number, case title, and order date

Contacting a registrar

For queries about an order, email [email protected] with "For the attention of the registrar" in the subject line. Include the High Court record number, case title, order date, and the party you represent.

Getting a copy of a court file document

If you represent yourself, you may request a document. If represented by a solicitor, they must make the request.

  • The case must have concluded.
  • A court stamp duty of €15 per document applies.
  • Requests must be made in person at the central office.
  • Processing time: two to three working days.

Getting a copy of a written judgment

  • Many judgments are available for free on the Courts website.
  • Attested copy – if needed for an appeal, email [email protected] with the case details.
  • Fees – €14 plus €1 per four pages. Payment details will be provided upon request.
  • Collection – attested copies must be collected in person from the central office (photo ID required if representing yourself).

Appealing a High Court order to the Court of Appeal

A High Court order can be appealed to the Court of Appeal. For rules, see order 86A of the Rules of the Superior Courts.

Appealing an order of the master of the High Court

An order made by the master of the High Court can be appealed to the High Court.

  • Filing the appeal:
    • Submit a notice of motion and affidavit to the central office.
    • If the master refused an application, appeal within six days.
    • If the master granted an application, appeal within six days of the perfected order.

For rules, see order 63, rule 9 of the Rules of the Superior Courts.

Getting a transcript of a digital audio recording (DAR)

Court hearings are recorded using digital audio recordings (DAR). To request a transcript:

  • Apply to the judge who heard the case via notice of motion and affidavit.
  • List the application before the judge who heard the matter.
  • Include:
    • High Court record number
    • Case title
    • Hearing date
    • Judge's name and courtroom number
    • Serve the motion on all parties

If approved, contact Epiq Global Limited with a copy of the order.

Epiq Global Limited, 4 Chancery Lane, Dublin 8
Tel: 01 571 0220 | Email: [email protected]

Court awards to children and accessing awards at age 18

Money awarded to a child in a court case is invested by the Courts Service until the child turns 18, unless directed otherwise.

  • Requesting early release:
    • The next friend (usually a parent or guardian) can request funds for health or welfare needs.
  • Include:
    • Child’s name
    • High Court record number (if available)
    • Case title
    • Reason for payment (with invoices or quotations)
    • Contact details of the next friend
  • Send request via:
    • Email: [email protected] (subject: "Minor request")
    • Post: Minor Payments, Central Office, High Court, Four Courts, Dublin 7
  • Processing time: apply two months in advance.
  • If approved, the Courts Service Accountants Office will arrange payment via cheque or bank transfer.

Remitting a case to the Circuit Court

When a High Court case is remitted (transferred) to the Circuit Court, the file is sent to the relevant Circuit Court office after the order is perfected.

Entering High Court orders in the central office

Some High Court orders must be formally entered in the central office. This is required when:

  • A party is joined to the case.
  • A summons is amended.
  • The title of proceedings changes.

Cuid de