Judicial System of Zambia

Supreme court: Supreme Court of Zambia

Ministry: Justice

The constitution provides for independence of the judiciary. The Supreme Court and the High Court are both presided over by the chief justice. The Supreme Court is the constitutional court and the final court of appeal. The High Court has unlimited civil and criminal jurisdiction and appellate jurisdiction in respect of appeals from the lower courts.

The subordinate courts are magistrates’ courts and have limited jurisdiction in civil and criminal cases. The local courts are only concerned with cases of customary law and very minor criminal matters. Other courts include the Industrial Relations Court and small claims courts.

Judges of the Supreme Court and High Court are appointed by the President on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission, subject to ratification by the National Assembly. Judges have tenure of office until they retire.