Transparency of the Legal System

There is no doubt of the importance of access to complete, accurate and up-to-date legislation and case law in the administration of justice.  It has long been recognised that a transparent legal system is a fundamental necessity for the Rule of Law, and clarity of legislation and unimpeded access to the primary sources of law, legislation and case law, are essential.  This, together with an independent judiciary to protect citizens against the arbitrary use of power, is the foundation of the Rule of Law.

Rule of Law cannot exist without a transparent legal system and the main components of such a system include a clear set of laws that are freely and easily accessible to all literate persons, strong enforcement structures, and an independent judiciary.

The creation of an effective and up to date legal referencing system for all English speaking African countries is one of LexisNexis South Africa’s core objectives. LexisNexis South Africa has established a specialist division which is dedicated in assisting countries on the African subcontinent to find solutions to improve the effectiveness of their legal systems through the provision of reliable legal publications in printed as well as electronic format.

LexisNexis South Africa has worked throughout Africa to consolidate and update laws in Kenya, Swaziland, South Africa, Malawi, and Zimbabwe-fourteen nations in all. LexisNexis also has joined the Southern Africa Litigation Center (SALC) in a joint initiative with the International Bar Association and Open Society of Southern Africa. The SALC trains attorneys, supports human rights cases, and carries out other programs to advance the Rule of Law.

We also provide proper training for selected Government Officials in the updating and editing of the Laws of the relevant State as well as the use of electronic retrieval systems, if required. The training of these officials is at no additional cost. LexisNexis views this training as a critical component of any project promoting access to Justice.