Constitutional Court of South Africa

The South African Constitutional Court was established in 1994 by South Africa's first democratic constitution: the Interim Constitution of 1993. In terms of the 1996 Constitution the Constitutional Court established in 1994 continues to hold office. The court began its first sessions in February 1995. Since February 2004, Constitution Hill, Johannesburg has been the seat of the court. It consists of eleven judges, headed by a Chief Justice and Deputy Chief Justice. Currently nine of the judges are men and two are women. They may serve for a non-renewable term of 12 years, but must retire at the age of 70. They are all independent. Their duty is to uphold the law and the constitution, which they must apply impartially and without fear, favour or prejudice.

Related Topics:
1994 - South Africa - Democratic - Constitution - Interim Constitution - 1993 - 1996 Constitution - February - 1995 - 2004 - Constitution Hill, Johannesburg - Judge - Chief Justice - Men - Women

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The constitution requires that a matter before the court is heard by at least eight judges. In practice, all eleven judges hear every case. If any judge is absent for a long period or a vacancy arises, an acting judge may be appointed by the President of the Republic on a temporary basis. Decisions of the Court are reached by majority vote of the judges sitting in a case. Each judge must indicate his or her decision. The reasons for the decision are published in a written judgement.

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