History of the District Court Morawaka

A Legacy of Justice: History of the Morawaka District/Magistrate's Court

The Morawaka Magistrate's Court was established in the seventeenth century as a Magistrate's Court, commencing a new chapter in the judicial history of the region. From its inception, the Court has performed its judicial functions with independence, impartiality, and dedication, exercising the jurisdiction vested in Magistrates under the laws of Sri Lanka.

In 2008, the Court commenced functioning as a Combined Court, exercising both Magistrate's Court jurisdiction and civil jurisdiction. This expansion significantly enhanced the judicial services available to the people of the Morawaka Judicial Division.

Morawaka Court Room

Morawaka Court

17TH CENTURY HERITAGE

1. Early Inception & Original Location at Galdola

The Court commenced its judicial functions at Galdola, its original location, where generations of judicial officers carried out their responsibilities and where numerous matters affecting the rights and obligations of individuals were determined according to law. The establishment of the Morawaka District/Magistrate's Court provided a dedicated forum for the resolution of legal matters and the administration of justice for the people of Morawaka and surrounding areas.

2. Relocation to Gatabaruwa Temple Due to Landslide Risk

Due to safety concerns arising from the risk of landslides affecting the original Court premises, the judicial functions of the Morawaka District/Magistrate's Court are presently conducted temporarily at a building belonging to Gatabaruwa Temple. This temporary arrangement has ensured the uninterrupted continuation of judicial services while providing a safe environment for litigants, legal practitioners, court staff, and all court users. The cooperation extended in providing these temporary premises reflects the collective commitment towards ensuring continuous access to justice.

3. Renovation and Restoration of Original Premises (Target: Dec 2026)

The original Court building is presently undergoing necessary renovation and improvement work to restore the premises to a safe and appropriate condition. The expected return of the Court to its original premises by December 2026 will mark another significant milestone, providing improved facilities and a more suitable environment for the effective administration of justice.

4. Enduring Values and Community Commitment

Today, the Morawaka District/Magistrate's Court continues to preserve its proud legacy as an institution dedicated to the cause of justice, firmly anchored in the enduring values of the Sri Lankan Judiciary. Guided by these principles, the Court remains committed to enhancing access to justice and serving the community with dignity, integrity, and unwavering dedication.