Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Increasing recognition is being given to the value of alternative dispute resolution methods in Fiji although it is not yet a standard practice. Many commercial contracts include arbitration or mediation clauses and the High Court is currently trialing a voluntary mediation system for cases.

Lawyers

As of 28 February 2009 there were a total of 318 lawyers registered by the Fiji Law Society. A large number of these are in Government or public sector practice. The remainder are in private practice, across approximately 70 separate firms.

Departing from British precedent, Fiji lawyers, as in New Zealand and some Australian states, are both barristers and solicitors. All but the most junior have right of audience in the High Court of Fiji and appellate courts.

Permanent admission to the bar of the High Court of Fiji is generally dependent on meeting residency requirements. Overseas counsel are often temporarily admitted to conduct specialist litigation.

The Fiji Law Society, a statutory body established by the Legal Practitioners Act 1997, regulates lawyers' professional conduct.

The Fiji Law Society is located at
100 Gordon St
Suva

Postal address
Box 2389
Government Buildings
Suva.

Telephone +679 331 5690

Facsimile +679 331 4334