Some of the Most Asked Questions

Find clear answers to common questions about our legal services, consultation process, fees, and how we can assist you.

Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners is a full-service law firm based in the Republic of Zambia. The firm provides comprehensive legal services to individuals, families, businesses, corporations, financial institutions, non-governmental organisations, government agencies, and international clients. Practising across virtually every area of Zambian law, the firm combines strategic legal thinking, strong courtroom advocacy, and practical commercial advice to deliver outcomes that protect and advance its clients' interests.

Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners is located in Zambia. [Full office address to be inserted.] The firm serves clients throughout the Republic of Zambia and advises international clients on all matters governed by Zambian law. Appointments can be scheduled in person or remotely, depending on the nature of the matter.

The firm represents a broad range of clients, including private individuals, families, small and medium-sized enterprises, large corporations, financial institutions, property developers, investors, non-governmental organisations, international organisations, government agencies, employers, employees, entrepreneurs, and foreign clients requiring legal representation in Zambia. The firm's breadth of expertise means that clients across every sector of Zambian life and commerce can be effectively served.

Yes. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners is a registered and regulated law firm operating in the Republic of Zambia in accordance with the Legal Practitioners Act. The firm's practitioners are duly qualified and regulated by the Law Association of Zambia.

The firm practises across virtually every major area of Zambian law, including corporate and commercial law, civil litigation, criminal law, constitutional law, administrative law, family law, employment and labour law, property and conveyancing, banking and finance, insolvency and restructuring, debt recovery, tax law, intellectual property, mining law, energy law, environmental law, immigration law, insurance law, estate planning, probate, arbitration, mediation, public procurement, competition law, human rights, and international business transactions, among others.

You can contact the firm by telephone, email, or by completing the consultation request form on the website. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm. The firm encourages prospective clients to schedule a consultation as a first step so that your legal matter can be assessed properly and confidentially. Contact details: +260977408737/+260979225448, info@jereadvocates, Plot 10, Makeni Road, Near Makeni School of nursing,
Makeni, Lusaka.

The firm offers a free initial case evaluation to help prospective clients understand whether their matter is one the firm can assist with and what the general legal options may be. This initial discussion does not constitute formal legal advice but provides an opportunity to assess your situation and determine the appropriate next steps. Contact the firm to schedule your free evaluation.

Yes. The firm regularly advises and represents international clients, foreign investors, and multinational organisations on matters governed by Zambian law. This includes investment structuring, regulatory compliance, company formation, commercial contracts, immigration, dispute resolution, and all other legal matters arising in the Zambian jurisdiction. The firm has the expertise to serve as a reliable local legal partner for any international client operating in or entering the Zambian market.

Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners provides comprehensive corporate legal services in Zambia, including company incorporation and registration, corporate governance advice, shareholder agreements, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, commercial contracts, regulatory compliance, due diligence, corporate restructuring, and board advisory services. The firm acts as a strategic legal partner for businesses at every stage of their growth — from start-up through to complex multi-jurisdictional transactions.

Civil litigation in Zambia involves resolving legal disputes through the courts, including the Magistrates Court, the High Court, and the Court of Appeal. Common civil disputes include contract breaches, debt recovery, property disputes, professional negligence claims, and tortious claims. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners has experienced litigators who represent clients at every level of the Zambian court system, from drafting pleadings and managing evidence through to trial advocacy and enforcement of judgments.

Yes. Buying or selling property in Zambia involves a legal process that includes title searches, preparation of sale agreements, transfer of title deeds, payment of stamp duty, and registration with the relevant authorities. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners handles all aspects of residential and commercial property conveyancing in Zambia, advising buyers, sellers, landlords, tenants, and developers to ensure that every property transaction is legally sound and properly completed.

The firm advises and represents clients in all family law matters arising under Zambian law, including divorce proceedings, legal separation, child custody and guardianship, child maintenance, spousal maintenance, division of matrimonial property, adoption, and paternity matters. Family law requires sensitivity as well as legal skill, and the firm approaches every family matter with both discretion and determination to achieve outcomes that protect the best interests of all parties involved, particularly children.

Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners provides employment and labour law advice to both employers and employees in Zambia. Services include drafting and reviewing employment contracts, advising on disciplinary and grievance procedures, representing clients in unfair dismissal and wrongful termination claims, advising on retrenchment processes, navigating collective bargaining and trade union matters, and ensuring compliance with the Employment Code Act and other applicable labour legislation.

Yes. The firm provides criminal defence representation at all levels of the Zambian criminal justice system. Whether you are facing charges in the Magistrates Court or the High Court, our legal practitioners will advise you on your rights, represent you at every stage of the proceedings, challenge evidence where appropriate, and advocate vigorously in your defence. Every person accused of a criminal offence deserves competent and fearless legal representation, and that is what our firm provides.

Yes. The firm advises individuals, families, and corporate clients on all aspects of Zambian immigration law. This includes applications for work permits, occupation permits, investor permits, residence permits, emergency travel documents, and citizenship. The firm also assists employers with immigration compliance and advises businesses on structuring their workforce in accordance with Zambian immigration regulations.

Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution in which parties agree to have their dispute decided by a neutral arbitrator or panel, outside of the public court system. It is commonly used in commercial, construction, and international business disputes. Zambia recognises arbitration under the Arbitration Act, and arbitral awards are enforceable through the courts. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners represents clients in domestic and international arbitration proceedings, and also advises on the drafting of effective arbitration clauses in commercial contracts.

Yes. The firm has significant experience in commercial and consumer debt recovery in Zambia. This includes sending formal demand letters, issuing statutory notices, filing court proceedings for the recovery of outstanding debts, obtaining and enforcing judgments, and advising on insolvency options where debtors are unable to pay. The firm advises both creditors seeking to recover debts and debtors facing recovery action.

Yes. Zambia's extractive industries are a significant part of the national economy, and the firm advises clients on a range of mining and energy law matters, including mining licences and permits, mining agreements, regulatory compliance under the Mines and Minerals Development Act, joint venture structuring, environmental obligations, and community engagement requirements. The firm also advises on energy projects, power purchase agreements, and compliance with energy sector regulations.

Yes. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners regularly advises non-governmental organisations and non-profit entities on all aspects of their legal framework, including registration and licensing under the NGO Act, governance structures, employment matters, regulatory compliance, contract management, and dispute resolution. The firm understands the unique legal environment in which NGOs operate in Zambia and provides tailored advice that supports their missions and activities.

Yes. The firm advises clients on intellectual property matters governed by Zambian law, including the registration and protection of trademarks, patents, industrial designs, and copyright. The firm also advises on licensing agreements, IP assignments, infringement disputes, and the enforcement of IP rights before the relevant authorities and courts. Protecting your intellectual property is an investment in your brand and competitive advantage — our firm helps you do so effectively.

Legal fees in Zambia vary depending on the nature and complexity of the matter, the level of court or forum involved, the time required, and the experience of the practitioners engaged. Some matters — such as simple contracts or standard conveyancing — may be charged at fixed fees, while complex litigation or ongoing advisory work is typically billed on a time-cost or retainer basis. At Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners, we provide transparent fee estimates at the outset of every engagement so that clients are never left uncertain about the likely cost of their matter.

During your first consultation, a legal practitioner will listen to the details of your situation, ask clarifying questions, and provide an initial assessment of your legal position and options. You will receive a clear explanation of the legal process involved, an indication of likely costs, and a recommendation for the appropriate next steps. The consultation is confidential. You are under no obligation to formally engage the firm following the consultation.

Timelines vary significantly depending on the type of matter. A straightforward contract review or conveyancing transaction may be completed within days or weeks. A contested civil matter in the High Court can take months to years, depending on the complexity of the dispute, the availability of the court, and whether the matter proceeds to trial or is settled. The firm provides realistic timeline assessments at the beginning of every engagement and communicates regularly on progress. Where appropriate, the firm explores alternative dispute resolution options to achieve faster resolutions.

Yes. In Zambia, the transfer of immovable property must be handled by a legal practitioner. Conveyancing involves legal processes including title searches, preparation of the deed of sale and transfer deed, lodgement with the Lands and Deeds Registry, and payment of applicable taxes and levies. Attempting to complete a property transaction without legal representation exposes buyers and sellers to significant legal and financial risk. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners provides full conveyancing services to ensure your property transaction is legally valid and properly protected.

The documents required will depend on the nature of your matter. As a general guide, you should bring any relevant contracts, agreements, correspondence, court documents, identity documents, and any other records that relate directly to your legal issue. It is helpful to also bring a brief written summary of the key facts and timeline of events if your matter is complex. Your legal practitioner will confirm in advance what specific documents are needed once you describe your matter.

Yes. Communications between a client and their legal practitioner in Zambia are protected by legal professional privilege and the duty of confidentiality. This means that your legal practitioner cannot disclose what you discuss without your consent, subject to limited exceptions prescribed by law. This protection applies from the moment you consult the firm. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners takes client confidentiality extremely seriously and maintains strict protocols to protect your privacy.

Yes. The firm offers a free initial case evaluation so that you can discuss your matter with a practitioner and determine whether the firm is the right fit for your legal needs. There is no pressure or obligation to formally engage following this initial discussion. The firm believes that every client should feel confident and comfortable in their choice of legal representation before committing to an engagement.

Yes. The firm understands that certain legal matters are urgent — whether due to court deadlines, regulatory requirements, imminent business transactions, or personal crises. The firm has the capacity to respond promptly to urgent instructions and to provide emergency legal assistance where necessary. Clients with urgent matters are encouraged to contact the firm directly by telephone to expedite the initial assessment.

Yes. The firm has experienced courtroom advocates who represent clients in all levels of the Zambian court system, including the Magistrates Court, the High Court, the Court of Appeal, and the Constitutional Court. Our litigators are skilled in trial preparation, examination of witnesses, legal argument, and appellate advocacy. If your matter proceeds to trial, you can be confident that you will be represented by practitioners who are fully prepared and determined to advocate effectively on your behalf.

In Zambia, the term "legal practitioner" is the formal designation for a qualified professional admitted to the bar and regulated by the Law Association of Zambia. This is equivalent to what many countries call a lawyer, solicitor, or attorney. Unlike jurisdictions such as England and Wales, where there is a distinction between solicitors (who advise clients) and barristers (who argue in court), Zambian legal practitioners are entitled to provide both legal advice and courtroom advocacy. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners employs qualified legal practitioners who are authorised to advise and represent clients across all legal matters.

In Zambia, divorce is governed by the Matrimonial Causes Act. Either spouse may petition the court for a divorce on the ground that the marriage has broken down irretrievably. Evidence supporting irretrievable breakdown may include adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion, or separation of at least two years. The court will also make orders regarding the division of matrimonial property, child custody, and maintenance. The process involves filing a petition in the High Court, serving the petition on the respondent, and attending court hearings. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners advises and represents clients in all stages of divorce proceedings in Zambia.

Zambian courts determine child custody matters based on the best interests of the child as the paramount consideration. Relevant factors include the child's age, wishes (depending on maturity), the ability of each parent to provide a stable and nurturing environment, the existing relationship between each parent and the child, and the child's educational and health needs. The courts may award sole custody to one parent or joint custody shared between both parents. A parenting plan may also be agreed between the parties and made an order of court. The firm advises clients throughout custody proceedings, always focusing on securing arrangements that serve the child's long-term wellbeing.

Under the Employment Code Act of 2019, an employee who is unfairly or wrongfully dismissed in Zambia has the right to challenge their dismissal. You may file a complaint with the Labour Commissioner or pursue your claim through the Industrial Relations Court. Remedies may include reinstatement, compensation, or both. The law sets out specific procedures that an employer must follow before terminating employment, and failure to follow these procedures may render the dismissal unlawful. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners advises employees on their rights and represents them in dismissal claims across all appropriate forums.

A will is a legal document that sets out how you wish your estate — your assets and possessions — to be distributed after your death. In Zambia, a valid will must be in writing, signed by the testator (the person making the will) in the presence of at least two witnesses, and signed by those witnesses in the testator's presence. Dying without a valid will (intestate) means that your estate is distributed according to the Intestate Succession Act, which may not reflect your wishes. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners advises clients on estate planning, drafts legally valid wills, and assists with the administration of estates following the death of a loved one.

If you have been injured in a road traffic accident in Zambia, you may have a legal right to claim compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and other losses. The process typically involves gathering evidence (including police reports, medical records, and witness statements), identifying the responsible party, and making a formal claim — either through an insurance company or by commencing court proceedings. Deadlines apply to personal injury claims, so it is important to seek legal advice promptly. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners assists accident victims at every stage of the claims process.

Foreign nationals and companies can acquire property in Zambia, though the process is subject to specific legal requirements, including obtaining consent from the Commissioner of Lands for certain categories of land. Land in Zambia is held under two main tenure systems: leasehold (for most urban properties) and customary tenure (for land in rural areas). Leasehold titles are the most common and commercially viable form of land ownership for foreign investors. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners advises foreign clients on the legal framework for property ownership in Zambia and handles all aspects of the acquisition process.

Probate is the legal process by which the estate of a deceased person is formally administered, debts are settled, and the remaining assets are distributed to beneficiaries. In Zambia, the executor named in the deceased's will (or an administrator appointed by the court if there is no will) applies to the High Court for a grant of probate or letters of administration. While it is technically possible to apply for probate without legal representation, the process involves strict procedural and documentation requirements, and errors can cause significant delay. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners assists families with probate applications and full estate administration efficiently and sensitively.

Companies in Zambia are registered with the Patents and Companies Registration Agency (PACRA). The process involves choosing a company name, preparing the memorandum and articles of association, completing the required registration forms, paying registration fees, and obtaining the certificate of incorporation. The firm assists clients with every step of the company formation process, ensuring that the company's constitutional documents are properly drafted, its ownership structure is legally sound, and all regulatory requirements are met from the outset.

Foreign investors doing business in Zambia should be aware of several key legal considerations, including company registration requirements, investment licensing and approvals (including through the Zambia Development Agency), sector-specific regulatory requirements (particularly in mining, energy, banking, and insurance), immigration requirements for expatriate employees, land acquisition restrictions, tax obligations under the Income Tax Act and Value Added Tax Act, and exchange control regulations. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners provides comprehensive investment advisory services to guide foreign investors through every aspect of the Zambian legal framework.

Public procurement in Zambia is governed by the Public Procurement Act, which regulates how government entities and public bodies acquire goods, services, and works. Businesses seeking to tender for government contracts must comply with specific procedural requirements, including pre-qualification, tender submission, evaluation, and award processes. The firm advises businesses on tender compliance, assists with procurement disputes, reviews contract terms for government supply arrangements, and advises on the legal remedies available where procurement processes have been conducted unlawfully.

Commercial contract disputes arise when one party fails to perform its obligations under a contract, or when there is a disagreement about the meaning or application of contract terms. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners assists businesses at every stage of a contract dispute — from initial negotiation and attempts at resolution through to formal mediation, arbitration, or court proceedings. The firm also advises proactively on the drafting and review of commercial contracts to minimise the risk of disputes arising in the first place.

Yes. The firm advises banks, financial institutions, microfinance providers, payment service providers, and other regulated entities on compliance with the Banking and Financial Services Act, the Bank of Zambia's regulatory framework, and related financial services legislation. The firm also assists clients with applications for banking licences and other financial services authorisations, and advises on the legal aspects of lending, security, and financial transactions of all types.

Yes. The firm provides tax law advice to both individuals and businesses, covering income tax, corporate tax, value added tax, withholding tax, property transfer tax, and customs and excise duties. The firm advises clients on their tax obligations, assists with Zambia Revenue Authority compliance, represents clients in tax audits and disputes, and advises on tax-efficient structuring of transactions and investments within the framework of Zambian law.

Competition law in Zambia is administered by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) and is designed to prevent anti-competitive practices such as price-fixing, market sharing, abuse of dominant position, and anti-competitive mergers. Businesses engaged in mergers, acquisitions, or conduct that may raise competition concerns must ensure compliance with the Competition and Consumer Protection Act. The firm advises clients on merger notifications, competition compliance programmes, investigations by the CCPC, and related regulatory matters.

Under the Zambian Constitution, every person arrested or detained has the right to be informed promptly of the reasons for their arrest, the right to remain silent, the right to legal representation of their choice, the right to communicate with their legal practitioner, and the right to be brought before a court within 24 to 48 hours depending on the circumstances. Any person who is arrested should exercise their right to remain silent until they have had an opportunity to consult a legal practitioner. If you or someone you know has been arrested in Zambia, contact Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners immediately for urgent legal advice and representation.

Zambia's Constitution contains a comprehensive Bill of Rights that protects fundamental rights and freedoms, including the right to life, the right to a fair trial, the right to equality and non-discrimination, the right to freedom of expression, and the right to freedom of movement, among others. The Constitutional Court of Zambia has jurisdiction to hear and determine matters relating to the violation of constitutional rights. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners advises clients on their constitutional rights and represents individuals and organisations in human rights matters before the Constitutional Court and other appropriate forums.

Litigation involves resolving a dispute through the court system, with a judge making a binding decision. It is often more formal, time-consuming, and costly than alternative dispute resolution methods. Mediation, by contrast, is a process in which a neutral third party (the mediator) facilitates discussions between the parties to help them reach a mutually acceptable settlement. Mediation is voluntary, confidential, and typically faster and less expensive than litigation. The outcome is agreed by the parties rather than imposed by a court. The firm advises clients on the most appropriate dispute resolution method for their particular circumstances, and represents clients in both mediation and litigation.

The Zambian court system operates on a hierarchical basis. At the lowest level are the Local Courts, which handle minor civil and customary law matters. The Magistrates Courts deal with criminal matters and civil disputes up to certain monetary thresholds. The High Court is the primary court of general jurisdiction for serious civil and criminal matters. The Court of Appeal hears appeals from the High Court and other subordinate courts. The Supreme Court of Zambia is the final court of appeal for most matters, while the Constitutional Court has exclusive jurisdiction over constitutional questions. Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners represents clients at every level of this court structure.

Yes. In Zambia, unlawful, unreasonable, or procedurally improper decisions made by government bodies or public authorities may be challenged through judicial review in the High Court. This is a branch of administrative law that holds government accountable to the rule of law. Grounds for judicial review include illegality (the authority acted outside its legal powers), irrationality (the decision was unreasonable), and procedural unfairness (proper procedures were not followed). Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners advises clients on administrative law matters and represents them in judicial review proceedings.

Clients choose Mesdames Jane Jere Legal Practitioners because the firm offers something that not every law firm can: the breadth of a full-service practice combined with the personalised attention of a client-focused team. The firm covers virtually every area of Zambian law, meaning that clients do not need to go to multiple firms for different matters — one trusted legal partner handles everything. The firm is committed to transparent communication, realistic advice, and measurable outcomes. Fees are discussed openly from the start. Advice is practical, not theoretical. And every client — whether an individual facing a personal legal challenge or a multinational corporation managing a complex transaction — receives the same commitment to excellence, integrity, and results. To discuss your legal matter with our team, contact us today.

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Office

Plot 10, Makeni Road, Near Makeni School of nursing
Makeni, Lusaka

Contact

info@jereadvocates.com

Open Hours

Monday-Friday 8 am - 5pm