How does the General Court differ from the Court of Justice within the Court of Justice of the European Union?

The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) is composed of two distinct courts: the Court of Justice and the General Court. They differ primarily in their jurisdiction, composition, and specific roles within the European Union legal system.1

Jurisdictional Differences

• Court of Justice: Primarily issues rulings on the interpretation of EU law for national courts and hears actions involving member states and EU institutions. It also serves as the appellate body for points of law regarding judgments made by the General Court.1
• General Court: Primarily hears actions brought by natural or legal persons against EU institutions, as well as specific cases involving state aid, trade, intellectual property, and employment relations.1

Composition

• Court of Justice: Comprised of 27 judges (one from each member state) and 11 advocates general.1
• General Court: Comprised of two judges from each member state.1

Both courts may sit in various chamber sizes, including a Grand Chamber of 15 judges for especially significant or complex cases.1