INTRODUCTION 

This module introduces learners to the basic foundations of legal systems in Zambia and some selected countries. The module brings to the fore some important aspects of the legal profession.  It explains what law is and its relevance. The module highlights issues on legal research and writing, it looks at the historical development of the legal systems, the legal profession and its divisions. It examines the Zambian legal system, the court structure in Zambia and ends with explaining the concept of statutory interpretation. The module aims to equip learners with valuable knowledge about law and the profession.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this module are:

• To explain what law is and its sources
• To explain the development and relevance of law
• To equip learners with important communication and legal writing skills
• To bring out and explain the different classifications of professionals in the legal profession
• To explain the structure of the Zambian legal system
• Identify and explain the Zambian Court structure 
• To identify the difference rules of interpretation used in courts.

LEARNING OUTCOMES 

At the end of this module you should be able to:

• Know and explain what law is and its sources
• Know and explain the development and relevance of law
• Know and explain the different parts that make up the legal profession
• Know and explain structure of the Zambian legal system
• Know and explain Zambian court structure
• Know and apply the different rules of interpretation used in by judges.

UNIT 1 – INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF LAW

UNIT 2 – LEGAL RESEARCH SKILLS

UNIT 3 – LEGAL WRITING SKILLS

UNIT 4 – DEVELOPMENT OF THE CURRENT LEGAL SYSTEM

UNIT 5 – THE LEGAL PROFESSION

UNIT 6 – THE ZAMBIAN LEGAL SYSTEM

UNIT 7 – ZAMBIAN COURT STRUCTURE AND JURISDICTIONS

UNIT 8 – RULES OF STATUTORY INTERPRETATION

 

RECOMMENDED READING 

Bakshi P.M. (2011)(2^nd Edition) “Legal Research and Law Reform” S.K. Verna and M. Afzal. Wani editions Legal Research and Methodology. New Dheli: Indian Law Institute

Bast C.M and Hawkins M. (2013)(5^th edn). Foundations of Legal Research and Writing. New York: Delmar Cengage Learning.

Holburn. G. (2001)(2^nd edn). Butterworths Legal Research Guide. London: Butterworths. 

Munalula M. (2004). Legal Process: Zambian Cases, Legislation and Commentaries. Lasaka: University of Zambia Press