Mali · Overview
The legal system of Mali
A French-tradition civil-law system operating under a transitional order following the 2020 and 2021 coups. A new constitution was adopted by referendum in June 2023, replacing the 1992 text. OHADA commercial law continues to apply; the 2011 Code des personnes et de la famille remains the personal status law.
Legal tradition
Mali belongs to the civil law (french tradition) tradition. A French-tradition civil-law system operating under a transitional order following the 2020 and 2021 coups. A new constitution was adopted by referendum in June 2023, replacing the 1992 text. OHADA commercial law continues to apply; the 2011 Code des personnes et de la famille remains the personal status law.
How power is divided
Formally a presidential system with a Prime Minister and bicameral legislature under the 2023 text; in practice transitional authorities exercise combined executive and legislative functions pending elections.
Where law comes from
- Constitution of 2023
- Replaced the 1992 constitution following referendum.
- OHADA Uniform Acts
- Directly applicable commercial law.
- Transitional instruments
- Charter and ordinances of the transition period.
- Codes
- Civil, penal, family (2011), labour and mining codes.
- Customary and Islamic rules
- Applied within the family code for personal status.
The legal profession
Avocats admitted through the Barreau du Mali after a law degree and traineeship; notaires and huissiers are separate ministerial offices.
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