K. Mwale and Company is committed to providing a client-centric, flexible, and transparent billing experience. We believe that clarity around fees is a fundamental component of a healthy attorney-client relationship, and we work hard to ensure that every client understands the cost structure of their engagement from the outset.
Our fees are structured to reflect the complexity and scope of each matter, the seniority of the practitioners involved, and the resources required to deliver the best possible outcome. We offer a range of billing arrangements — including hourly rates, fixed fees for discrete matters, and retainer arrangements for ongoing advisory relationships — tailored to the specific needs and preferences of each client.
Before commencing any engagement, we provide a clear written estimate or quote, setting out the anticipated scope of work and the associated costs. Throughout the engagement, we keep clients informed of any material changes to the projected costs, ensuring there are no surprises at the conclusion of the matter.
At the conclusion of each matter, clients receive a detailed account setting out all time spent, disbursements incurred, and fees charged — giving complete visibility into the work performed and the costs associated with it.
We are always open to discussing alternative fee arrangements where a standard billing structure may not be the most appropriate fit. Our goal is to ensure that excellent legal representation remains accessible and cost-effective for all our clients.
In addition to our professional fees, clients should be aware of the following cost items that may apply depending on the nature of the matter:
VAT at the standard rate of 16% is applicable on all professional fees charged by K. Mwale and Company in accordance with Zambian tax legislation. VAT is calculated on the net professional fee and will be reflected separately on all invoices and accounts rendered.
In certain circumstances, clients who are required by law to withhold tax on payments to service providers must withhold tax at the applicable rate of 15% on the gross fee. Where withholding tax applies, clients are required to provide the firm with the relevant withholding tax certificate as proof of remittance to the Zambia Revenue Authority.
Disbursements are out-of-pocket expenses incurred on behalf of clients in the course of a matter. These may include court filing fees, search fees, registration fees, courier and postage costs, travel expenses, and similar costs. All disbursements are charged at actual cost and are itemised in the detailed account provided to the client at the conclusion of the matter.
Any work that falls outside the agreed scope of the original instruction will be discussed with the client before being undertaken. Additional fees for out-of-scope work will be agreed in advance wherever possible, and clients will always be kept informed if the scope of a matter changes materially during the course of the engagement.
K. Mwale & Company is strategically located in the heart of Lusaka, Zambia’s commercial capital. Our offices are easily accessible to clients from the central business district, major financial institutions, and the principal regulatory and judicial bodies of Zambia.
For specific fee enquiries or to discuss billing arrangements, please contact us directly. We are happy to provide a tailored quote for your matter after an initial consultation.
Request a ConsultationOur professional fees vary according to the seniority and designation of the practitioner handling your matter. This ensures that you receive appropriately experienced advice while also providing cost efficiency for work that can be handled by more junior practitioners under supervision.
The Partner rate applies where work is performed by or requires the direct involvement of a Partner. Partner-level work includes strategic advice, major transactions, court appearances, and final review and sign-off of complex documents.
The Senior Associate rate applies to experienced lawyers handling complex work with a degree of autonomy. Senior Associates are trusted to lead matters, draft complex documents, and manage client relationships under Partner supervision.
The Associate rate applies to qualified lawyers performing research, drafting, due diligence, and other substantive work under the supervision of Senior Associates or Partners. This rate provides cost-effective access to qualified legal support.