Senegalese Law

Senegalese Law refers to the legal system and framework of legislation that governs the Republic of Senegal, located in West Africa. It is primarily based on a combination of French civil law, customary law, and Islamic law (particularly in matters of personal status such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance). Senegal, having been a French colony until 1960, has retained many legal principles from the French legal system, including its codes and legal processes.

The Senegalese legal system is characterized by statutes passed by the National Assembly and regulations issued by the executive branch. Courts in Senegal include specialized jurisdiction such as administrative, criminal, and civil courts, with the Supreme Court serving as the highest court of appeal. This legal framework addresses various aspects of life in Senegal, including civil rights, commercial transactions, family law, criminal law, and more, with a significant influence of local customs and Islamic principles in applicable cases. Overall, Senegalese Law reflects the country’s history, cultural diversity, and socio-economic context.