When a dispute reaches court, the quality of your legal representation can determine everything. A litigation is not just about arguing in court. It is about preparation, strategy, timing, and knowing the law and the facts better than the other side. At URU Attorneys, we approach every dispute, whether a commercial claim, a criminal charge, or a contractual disagreement, with the same rigor: we analyze the full picture before we make a move.
“In litigation, the difference between winning and losing often comes down to preparation. We prepare thoroughly, advise honestly, and fight hard when it matters.”
Being charged with a criminal offence is one of the most serious situations a person or company can face. We represent accused persons from the first police interview through bail applications, pre-trial hearings, full trial, and appeal. Our approach is thorough: we review all evidence, challenge unlawfully obtained material, advise on available defences, and ensure your constitutional rights under the Constitution of Tanzania are fully protected throughout.
Disputes arising from commercial agreements, unpaid invoices, breach of contract, misrepresentation, and failed business transactions are among the most common matters we handle. We advise on the strength of your claim or defence, negotiate settlements where advantageous, and litigate strategically where necessary. We give realistic advice from the outset so you can make informed decisions about how to proceed.
Recovering money owed to you is a legitimate legal right. Whether the debt arises from a loan, unpaid services, a returned cheque, or a judgment already obtained, we pursue recovery through the most effective and cost-proportionate route available — including formal demand letters, summary suits, garnishee orders, and attachment and sale of property. Most debt claims must be filed within six years under the Limitation Act Cap 89.
Land disputes are among the most contentious matters in Tanzania. We represent clients in disputes over ownership, boundaries, unlawful occupation, trespass, fraudulent title transfers, and demolition orders. Cases may be heard in the Land Division of the High Court, the Resident Magistrate's Court (Land), or Ward Tribunals depending on the value and nature of the dispute. We advise on the correct venue from the outset.
Employment disputes in Tanzania are primarily heard by the Commission for Mediation and Arbitration (CMA) before proceeding to the Labour Division of the High Court. We represent both employees and employers. Strict time limits apply: most employment claims must be filed with the CMA within 30 days of the event giving rise to the dispute. We help you file in time and build the strongest possible case.
Some situations require immediate court intervention to prevent irreparable harm. We apply for injunctions and urgent orders in cases involving threatened destruction of assets, imminent breach of contract, trespass, or other time-critical matters. Obtaining an injunction requires satisfying the court on specific legal tests. We know these tests and prepare applications that succeed.
If you received an adverse judgment and believe the court made an error of law or fact, you may have the right to appeal. We advise on the merits and realistic prospects of an appeal, prepare grounds of appeal, and represent clients up to the Court of Appeal of Tanzania. We are equally experienced in defending judgments against appeals. Strict time limits apply — seek advice immediately after any adverse ruling.
We handle contested divorce proceedings, child custody and maintenance disputes, and matrimonial property division in the High Court. Family disputes are always sensitive. Our approach is to resolve matters as efficiently and amicably as possible while fully protecting our client's rights and the best interests of any children involved. Where negotiation is not possible, we litigate with focus and purpose.
We start with a focused conversation about your business, its objectives, your timeline, and the specific legal task at hand. This costs you nothing and typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. It allows us to assess the scope of work accurately and give you a clear fee estimate before anything begins.
Once you decide to proceed, we issue a clear engagement letter outlining the scope of work, fees, timeline, and what we need from you. There are no surprises. Our fees are governed by the Advocates Remuneration Order GN No. 263 of 2015 and are transparent from the start.
Our advocates prepare all required documents, review them with you for accuracy, and manage all interactions with BRELA, the TIC, the NGO Coordination Board, the Tanzania Revenue Authority, and any other relevant government body. We track deadlines and filing confirmations so you do not have to.
Before any document is submitted or signed, you review and approve it. We explain the legal implications in plain language. You remain in control of every decision. If you are overseas, this process works efficiently by email and video call.
Upon completion we provide you with a full set of certified copies of all incorporation, registration, or transaction documents. For retained clients, we provide ongoing compliance monitoring and legal advisory as your business grows and as Tanzanian law evolves.
Court litigation in Tanzania can be time-consuming and expensive. In many cases, Alternative Dispute Resolution achieves a better outcome in less time and at significantly lower cost. We advise clients on the most suitable approach for their dispute and represent them throughout ADR processes.
Arbitration is a private, binding process where a neutral arbitrator hears the dispute and issues a legally enforceable award. It is particularly common in commercial and construction disputes. Tanzania is a party to the New York Convention, meaning Tanzanian arbitral awards can be recognised and enforced in over 170 countries. We advise on arbitration clauses, represent clients in proceedings, and assist with enforcement of awards.
Mediation involves a neutral third party facilitating settlement discussions. It is non-binding unless the parties sign a settlement agreement. Mediation preserves business relationships, is entirely confidential, and typically resolves disputes in days rather than months or years. We represent clients in mediation and advise carefully on whether a proposed settlement truly protects your interests before you sign anything.
Understanding which legislation applies to your business is the first step in avoiding regulatory risk. These are the primary laws our corporate team works with on a daily basis.
Governs the formation, registration, management, and dissolution of companies in Tanzania. The primary law for all company incorporations handled through BRELA.
The primary legislation for foreign investors. Establishes the Tanzania Investment Centre, sets out investor protections, and governs the issuance of Certificates of Incentives. Key reading for any foreign investor entering Tanzania.
Administered by the Fair Competition Commission (FCC). Regulates mergers and acquisitions above defined thresholds, prohibits anti-competitive conduct, and governs consumer protection matters.
Regulates the registration of business names and other business entities. Administered by BRELA. Applies to sole traders and partnerships conducting business in Tanzania.
Governs the registration, operations, and regulatory obligations of NGOs and civil society organisations in Tanzania. All NGOs must comply with this Act and register with the NGO Coordination Board.
The foundational law governing the enforceability of contracts in Tanzania. Applies to all commercial agreements. Understanding this Act is essential for drafting contracts that will hold up in a Tanzanian court or arbitration panel.
