“A top law firm that delivers world class solutions to both everyday and complex matters.” That has been the goal of trusted allies Augustine Hamwela and Layeni Phiri ever since they teamed up in the midst of the pandemic to create their full service law firm, August Hill and Associates, based in Lusaka, Zambia.
With their experience locally and in the international legal arenas, the pair have crafted bold plans to offer attractive modern solutions for their clients, while maintaining a traditional ethos.
Phiri told Africa Legal that their firm is unlike those that have a rudimentary structure.
“Many law firms in Zambia have Chinese walls – one partner does one thing, the other partner does the other. They've got different clients and they only share maybe expenses, and that's how many law firms have gotten along. But we thought we could try something different. We wanted to encompass all our clients' needs, and be a one stop shop. What you want, what you need, we can provide,” he said.
Among the attributes that has set Phiri and Hamwela apart is their client centric approach. Rather than reading out the law to their clients, they provide tailor-made solutions.
The firm’s unique selling point is to advise Zambian companies with international or pan-African aspirations, and international businesses with regional aspirations.
“So we in the firm have a fair understanding of the laws and regulations right across the globe in a number of sectors where our clients play. And because of that niche that we have, we are in a unique position to give advice not only to Zambian clients who want to foray into other jurisdictions, but also to international clients who want to come into Zambia or who want to do business in other African markets where we have plenty of networks,” explained Hamwela.
The managing partners believe their advice to clients will motivate strategic changes, including where to set up new operations.
In the podcast, Phiri also passionately discusses why he thinks the Zambian legal system, which has closely mirrored the United Kingdom’s, needs to be revolutionised.
The guests wrap up their conversation by sharing their insights on Zambia’s upbeat political climate under President Hakainde Hichilema.
Listen to the full podcast on Soundcloud, Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
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