Sierra Leone · Overview
The legal system of Sierra Leone
English common law with a formally dual structure: the general law runs in the Western Area and the former Protectorate operates local courts applying customary law. The post-conflict period produced substantial rights and land reform, and the 2022 Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment Act is a significant recent statute.
Legal tradition
Sierra Leone belongs to the mixed (common law and customary law) tradition. English common law with a formally dual structure: the general law runs in the Western Area and the former Protectorate operates local courts applying customary law. The post-conflict period produced substantial rights and land reform, and the 2022 Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment Act is a significant recent statute.
How power is divided
Executive president, unicameral Parliament including twelve paramount chiefs, and an independent judiciary headed by the Chief Justice.
Where law comes from
- Constitution
- Supreme law; section 171(15) voids inconsistent enactments.
- Acts of Parliament
- Primary legislation.
- Received common law and equity
- English rules in force at reception, as developed locally.
- Customary law
- Applied by local courts outside the Western Area.
- Subsidiary legislation
- Statutory instruments and by-laws.
The legal profession
Fused; admission follows a law degree and the Sierra Leone Law School, with enrolment at the Bar administered under the Legal Practitioners Act.
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