An introduction to Zimbabwean law

This is an introductory textbook on the Zimbabwean legal system. It sets the stage for a comprehensive description of that legal system by opening with some theoretical issues on the nature of law in general, particularly a definition of law, the role and purpose of law in society, the relationship between law and justice and how morality impacts on law. After outlining this theoretical framework, it turns to the Zimbabwean legal system and covers the following key areas: sources of Zimbabwean law, the scope of Roman-Dutch law in Zimbabwe, the law-making process and the role of Parliament, the structure of the courts in Zimbabwe, the procedures in the civil and criminal courts, the legal aid system and the nature of the legal profession. It covers the process of appointment of judges and its effect on the independence of the judiciary. It has a long closing chapter on the interpretation of statutes covering all the rules, maxims and presumptions.

Cover; Title Page; Copyright Page; About the author; Contents; Acknowledgements; Foreword; 1. What is Law?; The concept of law: A definition; The relationship between law & morality; The relationship between law & justice; What is a legal system?; The purpose & function of law; To do justice; To preserve peace & order; To enforce morality; To protect the interests of the ruling class; Two key elements of law: legal right & legal personality; Legal right; Legal personality; Notes; 2. Sources of Law; Legislation; Common law; A brief history of Roman Dutch law; Advantages of precedent; Custom

General customAfrican customary law; Authoritative texts; Law reports; Notes; 3. Divisions of the Law; Criminal law versus civil law; Public law versus private law; Substantive law versus procedural law; National law versus international law; General law versus customary law; Common law versus civil law; Law (common law) versus equity; Notes; 4. The Law-Making Process; Introduction: State organs and their powers; The legislature (the law-makers); The executive; The judiciary; Other key organs; The Attorney General; The Comptroller & Auditor-General; The Public Protector

The process of law-maki…