Learning a new language opens up a world of opportunities, not least in the realm of law and legal matters. Whether you are a lawyer working with Swahili-speaking clients, a student of law planning to work in East Africa, or simply a language enthusiast, understanding legal and law vocabulary in Swahili can be incredibly beneficial. In this article, we will explore key legal terms and phrases in Swahili, complete with contextual examples to help you grasp their usage effectively.

Basic Legal Terms

Law in Swahili is translated to “sheria.” This is a fundamental term that forms the basis of many legal discussions.

Mheshimiwa Jaji, sheria inapaswa kufuatwa bila ubaguzi. – Honorable Judge, the law should be followed without discrimination.

The term lawyer in Swahili is “wakili.” If you need legal representation, knowing this word could be very helpful.

Wakili wangu atawasilisha ushahidi kesho. – My lawyer will present the evidence tomorrow.

Courtroom Vocabulary

In Swahili, a court is known as “mahakama.” This is where legal proceedings take place.

Kesi hiyo itasikilizwa katika mahakama ya juu. – The case will be heard in the high court.

The word for judge is “jaji,” an essential figure in the courtroom.

Jaji ataamua kulingana na ushahidi uliowasilishwa. – The judge will decide based on the evidence presented.

Legal Actions and Proceedings

The term to sue in Swahili is “kuwasilisha kesi.” This is an action one might take if seeking justice or compensation.

Aliamua kuwasilisha kesi dhidi ya kampuni hiyo. – He decided to sue the company.

When someone is arrested, in Swahili, this is expressed as “kukamatwa.”

Mtuhumiwa alikamatwa jana usiku. – The suspect was arrested last night.

Contracts and Agreements

A contract in Swahili is “mkataba.” Contracts are essential for business and personal agreements.

Mkataba unapaswa kuwa na saini za pande zote mbili. – The contract should have signatures from both parties.

The term for agreement is “makubaliano.” Agreements, like contracts, are binding in many scenarios.

Makubaliano yalifikiwa baada ya majadiliano marefu. – An agreement was reached after lengthy discussions.

Rights and Responsibilities

The word for rights in Swahili is “haki.” Knowing your rights is crucial in any legal setting.

Kila mtu ana haki ya kusikilizwa mahakamani. – Everyone has the right to be heard in court.

Responsibilities are referred to as “wajibu” in Swahili.

Ni wajibu wetu kuheshimu sheria za nchi. – It is our responsibility to respect the laws of the country.

Legal Outcomes

The term for verdict in Swahili is “hukumu.” This is the decision made at the end of a trial.

Hukumu itatolewa wiki ijayo. – The verdict will be given next week.

When talking about a sentence, in a legal context, it is referred to as “adhabu.”

Adhabu itategemea uzito wa kosa. – The sentence will depend on the severity of the offense.

Useful Phrases in Legal Discussions

To express legal advice, you might use the phrase “ushauri wa kisheria.”

Napenda kupokea ushauri wa kisheria kabla ya kusaini mkataba huu. – I would like to receive legal advice before signing this contract.

When discussing legal proceedings, the Swahili term “mchakato wa kisheria” is useful.

Mchakato wa kisheria unaweza kuchukua muda mrefu. – The legal process can take a long time.

Understanding these terms and phrases not only enriches your Swahili vocabulary but also enhances your ability to engage in or follow legal discussions competently. Whether you are studying law, working in a legal context, or simply expanding your language skills, knowledge of legal vocabulary is an invaluable asset.