The backbone of our society

When I first saw the title of this book, I thought it was another piece of literature for lawyers and those involved in the legal profession and I was tempted to put it down. However, after digging into it, I found that it contained many legal facts that the general public are quite possibly oblivious to.

Written by one of Zimbabwes respected law lecturers, Lovemore Madhuku, the book introduces pertinent issues of Zimbabwean law. These include the source of law, its making, and government structures and procedures.

Regarding the source of law in Zimbabwe, it comprehensively outlines why the Roman Dutch Law forms the basis of our legal system. The book also details the stages through which a bill goes in order to be passed as law. The author makes a brief overview of the legal aid system and the legal profession in Zimbabwe.

Comparing our system with the legal systems in England and other countries, Madhuku tackles the colonial make up of the legal professions divided system to the current fused system where it no longer needs seven years of practice for a lawyer to become an advocate.

He also looks at the watchdog role played by the Law Society of Zimbabwe to practising legal professionals. Writing in simple language, without an excessive use of latin maxims, Madhuku explains the limitations of all Zimbabwean courts, making it clear to all prospective litigants what court they must approach and the procedures they must take in that respect.

Also useful for law students, it is an invaluable reference for practising lawyers, especially those from outside Zimbabwe who may want to get a snapshot of the Zimbabwean legal system. This book is a must buy for anyone who thinks they may need to know more about something that forms the backbone of our society, the law.