Dispute Resolution

Disputes are a reality of doing business - but with the right strategy, they need not derail it. FIN & LAW represents clients across the full dispute-resolution spectrum in Tanzania: negotiation, mediation, arbitration and litigation before every level of court, from the Resident Magistrates’ Courts through the High Court (including its Commercial, Land and Labour Divisions) to the Court of Appeal.

Our advocates handle commercial and contractual disputes, banking and debt recovery claims, land and property contests, employment litigation, and administrative and constitutional challenges. We are equally at home in arbitration - acting as counsel in domestic and international proceedings under NCC, ICC and UNCITRAL rules, and in the recognition and enforcement of arbitral awards before the Tanzanian courts.

Every mandate begins with a clear-eyed assessment of merits, cost and commercial objective. We fight hard where fighting serves our client - and settle smartly where it does not.

What We Do

• Commercial litigation before all Tanzanian courts
• Domestic and international arbitration
• Mediation and structured settlement negotiation
• Recognition and enforcement of judgments and arbitral awards
• Banking disputes and debt recovery
• Land, property and construction disputes
• Employment and labour litigation
• Judicial review and constitutional petitions

Typical Matters

• Commercial litigation before the High Court (Commercial Division) and subordinate courts
• Domestic and international arbitration, both institutional and ad hoc
• Mediation and negotiated settlement of contractual and shareholder disputes
• Debt recovery, enforcement of judgments and interim relief
• Regulatory and administrative challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between litigation and arbitration?

Litigation resolves disputes through the public court system, while arbitration is a private process where parties agree to have their dispute decided by one or more arbitrators. Arbitration is often chosen for commercial matters because it can offer more confidentiality and flexibility.

How long does commercial arbitration usually take?

The duration varies widely depending on the complexity of the dispute, the number of parties, and the procedure agreed. Simpler matters may conclude in months, while complex disputes can take considerably longer; a clear arbitration clause and cooperative parties help keep timelines shorter.

Is mediation worth trying before going to court?

Often yes. Mediation is a voluntary, without-prejudice process in which a neutral mediator helps parties reach their own settlement, which can save time and cost and preserve business relationships. Many disputes settle at mediation even when litigation has begun.

Can a foreign arbitration award be enforced in Tanzania?

Tanzania recognises the enforcement of certain foreign arbitral awards under applicable international arrangements, subject to the required procedure and limited grounds for refusal. This makes arbitration attractive for cross-border commercial contracts.