Legal Definitions - curia admiralitatis

Definition: Curia Admiraltatis (kyoor-ee-uh ad-muh-ruhl-tay-tis) is a Law Latin term that refers to the High Court of Admiralty in England. It is a court that has jurisdiction over matters related to shipping, collision, and salvage cases.

The court has been in existence since the 14th century and has a long history of dealing with prize and piracy cases. Over time, its jurisdiction has expanded to include criminal matters and other areas of law not directly related to maritime issues.

The Judicature Acts of 1873-1875 merged the Court into the High Court as part of the Probate, Divorce, and Admiralty Division. The Administration of Justice Act of 1970 established a new Admiralty Court as part of the Queen's Bench Division of the High Court. It is regulated by the Supreme Court Act of 1981.

Example: A shipping company is involved in a collision with another vessel, resulting in damage to both ships. The case would be heard in the Curia Admiraltatis.

Explanation: The Curia Admiraltatis has jurisdiction over matters related to shipping, including collisions. In this example, the court would hear the case and determine liability for the damage caused.