Courts of the Northwest Territories

The official website of the courts of the Northwest Territories can be found at https://www.nwtcourts.ca.

The Northwest Territories has five separate courts which operate independently from the federal and territorial governments, enabling judges to make fair decisions.

Court of Appeal

The highest court in the Northwest Territories, and hears appeals arising from judgments or decisions from the lower courts.

Supreme Court

Has jurisdiction over all civil and criminal matters. Trials for more serious criminal matters (including jury trials) are heard in this court.

Territorial Court

Has jurisdiction over civil matters for claims up to $35,000 in value, non-jury trials for most criminal charges, and preliminary inquiries on serious criminal offences.

Youth Justice Court

Hears criminal and summary conviction matters involving youth ages 12-18.

Justices of the Peace

The normal court of first appearance on all criminal matters, and holds trials on offences under territorial statutes and municipal bylaws.

Alternative Court processes

The territorial court system offers alternative processes that support offenders who plead guilty, aiming to reduce re-offending. These specialized courts take a holistic approach to address underlying factors and improve long-term community safety.

Intimate Partner Violence Treatment Options

Integrates counseling and therapy opportunities with the court process for individuals who have used violence in their relationships, and recognize the need to change their behavior.

Wellness Court

Presents an alternative approach that aims to deal with the issues behind the offending behaviour. In support of the Wellness Court, the Wellness Court Program provides monitored treatment and community service support for chronic offenders with mental health issues, addictions, or cognitive challenges.

Community Justice

Selected matters involving minor criminal offenses can be diverted from the court system on the recommendation of crown counsel or the RCMP to be handled by a Community Justice Committee.
Updated: Apr 22, 2026