What is the Judicial Council guidelines on damages?

What the Law Says

The Personal Injuries Assessment Board Act 2003 establishes the legal framework for assessing personal injury damages in Ireland — but it does not empower the Judicial Council to issue binding guidelines on damages. Instead, the Act mandates that the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) carry out assessments using objective criteria, including published guidance.

Section 22 of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board Act 2003 gives PIAB the power to assess personal injury claims and determine the amount of compensation payable. It authorises PIAB to publish and update guidance to support consistent and fair assessments.

This guidance is known as the Book of Quantum — a non-statutory, evidence-based reference document listing typical compensation ranges for various injuries. It is used by PIAB, solicitors, insurers, and courts as a benchmark — but it is not legally binding on courts or parties.

The Judicial Council of Ireland, established in 2019, has no statutory role in setting or issuing guidelines on damages. Its functions relate to judicial conduct, training, and court administration — not compensation assessment.

Statutory Text

The Board may, for the purposes of the performance of its functions under this Act, publish such information and guidance as it considers appropriate.

— Personal Injuries Assessment Board Act 2003, s. 22 — Power to publish information and guidance

What to Do

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