Supreme Court

Pakistan

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Last updated

July 18, 2026

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The Supreme Court of Pakistan is the highest court of appeal in the country and plays a crucial role in the nation's judicial system. It was established with a structure similar to the system used during British rule and when Pakistan was a province of British India. The court is divided into Appellate and High Court divisions, and the constitution mandates a separation between the judiciary and the executive branches of government.1

Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry, a notable figure, served as Chief Justice of Pakistan from 2005–07 and 2009–13. His tenure was marked by significant events, including his removal from office by President Pervez Musharraf and subsequent reinstatement following widespread legal and political protests. The Supreme Court's authority was reinforced by Chaudhry's return, underscoring the importance of an independent judiciary in Pakistan.2

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Pakistan
Electoral losses and resignation
…parties and then the Pakistan Supreme Court objected on constitutional grounds. In March Musharraf dismissed Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry, which sparked a general strike of Pakistani lawyers and outbreaks of violent protest in various parts of the country; the Supreme Court overturned the dismissal in July, and Chaudhry was…
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…parties and then the Pakistan Supreme Court objected on constitutional grounds. In March Musharraf dismissed Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry, which sparked a general strike of Pakistani lawyers and outbreaks of violent protest in various parts of the country; the Supreme Court overturned the dismissal in July, and Chaudhry was…
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Pakistan
Justice
…the Federal Constitutional Court, the Supreme Court, the provincial high courts, and (under their jurisdiction and supervision) district courts that hear civil cases and sessions courts that hear criminal cases. There is also a magistracy that deals with cases brought by the police. The district magistrate (who, as deputy commissioner,…
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…the Federal Constitutional Court, the Supreme Court, the provincial high courts, and (under their jurisdiction and supervision) district courts that hear civil cases and sessions courts that hear criminal cases. There is also a magistracy that deals with cases brought by the police. The district magistrate (who, as deputy commissioner,…
Read More