Cyprus was a British colony until 1960, when the island became independent . Until independence the legal system was based on the English legal system. The laws enacted for the colony applied to Cyprus the principles of common law and equity. Many of those laws are still in force today.
After independence in 1960 the English legal system was largely preserved. The laws applicable are the following:
- The Constitution of the Republic of Cyprus
- The laws retained in force by virtue of Article 188 of the Constitution
- The principles of Common Law and Equity
- The Laws enacted by the House of Representatives.
Following the accession of The Republic of Cyprus to the European Union in 2004, the Constitution was amended so that European law has supremacy over the Constitution and national legislation.
The Cyprus Judiciary has always enjoyed a reputation of impartiality and independence. Judicial independence is safeguarded by the Constitution and the traditions of the Judiciary. Judges are members of the Judicial Service of the Republic. All judges except the judges of the Supreme Court are appointed by the Supreme Council of Judicature, a body composed of the Judges of the Supreme Court. This body is responsible for the appointment, promotion, transfer and discipline of judges.
Supreme Court Judges are appointed by the President of the Republic, by tradition from within the ranks of the Judiciary and upon the recommendation of the Supreme Court.