The procedure of the Court of Justice of the European Union: modi operandi at the supranational judicature

This chapter provides an insight into the procedural intricacies of the CJEU. Its primary focus is on the Court of Justice, which plays, both in terms of the formal hierarchy, but also in terms of practical importance, first ‘fiddle’ in the judicature of the EU. Moreover, its jurisdiction is more universal and covers all possible direct and indirect actions envisaged by the EU Founding Treaties. The unique features of the CJEU, which is a ‘judicature of many faces’, are also reflected in the modi operandi applicable to the Court of Justice and to the General Court. The chapter provides an overview of the jurisdiction of the CJEU and the division of roles between its two constituting courts, the conduct of proceedings and the internal management of cases, and the rules governing languages and the specific institution of advocates general. Procedures applicable to interim measures, judgments and appeals are also discussed.