Introduction
Magistrate Courts are the primary courts of first instance in Eswatini, handling the majority of civil and criminal cases. These courts are distributed throughout the country to ensure accessible justice for all citizens.
Court Locations
Locations Directory
1. Mbabane
Address: CRN Gwamile Street & Malandela Ave, Opposite Omnicenter Building
Contact: Phone: +268 2404 5516
Hours: Mon–Fri, 08:00–16:00
2. Manzini
Address: CRN Mahleka St & Martin St next to Build It Hardware
Contact: Phone: +268 2505 2296
Hours: Mon–Fri, 08:00–16:00
3. Nhlangano
Address: Next to Police Station and First National Bank
Contact: Phone: +268 2207 8351
Hours: Mon–Fri, 08:00–16:00
4. Hluthi
Address: Between Nhlangano-Lavumisa road, MR11, Next to Hluti Police Station
Contact: Phone: +268 2217 6144
Hours: Mon–Fri, 08:00–16:00
5. Siteki
Address: Opp Building Society, Next to Police Station
Contact: Phone: +268 2343 4175
Hours: Mon–Fri, 08:00–16:00
6. Simunye
Address: Next to Police Station
Contact: Phone: +268 2383 8340
Hours: Mon–Fri, 08:00–16:00
7. Pigg’s Peak
Address: MR1 CRN Swazi Bank, Next to Pigg's Peak Town Board
Contact: Phone: +268 2437 1283
Hours: Mon–Fri, 08:00–16:00
7. Big Bend
Address: Next to Police Station
Contact: Phone: +268 2383 8340
Hours: Mon–Fri, 08:00–16:00
Jurisdiction and Powers
Understanding the scope and limitations of Magistrate Courts in Eswatini.
Criminal Jurisdiction
- Can impose sentences up to 10 years’ imprisonment or fines not exceeding E50,000.
- Handles summary offences and indictable offences triable summarily.
- May refer cases beyond its sentencing limits to the High Court.
Civil Jurisdiction
- Adjudicates claims up to E300,000 in monetary value.
- Hears contract disputes, property matters, and personal injury cases within its financial limits.
- Exceptions: land disputes above prescribed value and specialized matters reserved for higher courts.
Special Jurisdictions
- Domestic violence protection orders.
- Maintenance and custody disputes.
- Small claims procedures for disputes under E5,000.
Court Procedures
A guide to navigating Magistrate Court procedures.
Criminal Case Procedure
- Arrest and charge
- First appearance and plea
- Bail application
- Trial process with evidence presentation
- Sentencing hearing
Civil Case Procedure
- Filing a claim at court registry
- Service of documents on respondent
- Pre-trial conference or case management
- Trial procedure and witness testimony
- Judgment, costs assessment, and enforcement actions
Special Applications
- Protection orders under the Domestic Violence Act
- Maintenance applications for children and spouses
- Eviction proceedings under the Rent Control Act
Appeals Process
How to appeal Magistrate Court decisions to the High Court.
- 1 File a notice of appeal within 14 days of judgment.
- 2 Prepare and lodge the court record.
- 3 Submit appeal documents and prescribed fees.
- 4 High Court hearing date set.
- 5 Judgment on appeal delivered by the High Court.
Court Officials and Their Roles
Principal Magistrate
Oversees administrative functions, assigns magistrates, manages court performance.
Senior Magistrates
Preside over serious criminal/high-value civil matters, mentor magistrates.
Magistrates
Handle day-to-day case management, specialized applications.
Court Clerks
Maintain records, manage filings, provide public assistance.
Prosecutors
Present criminal cases for the State, liaise with police.
Frequently Asked Questions
Navigate the legal process with confidence. Find answers to common questions about Magistrate Court procedures, requirements, and services.
You may represent yourself or engage a lawyer; however, legal representation is recommended for complex matters. The court provides basic guidance, but having professional legal advice ensures your rights are properly protected and procedures are followed correctly.
Ensure all required documents are attached and that you have copies for your records and for service on the respondent.
A complete fee schedule is available at each registry and on our website.
Timelines depend on case complexity and court workload. Criminal cases with guilty pleas are typically resolved faster than contested trials.
Arrive early to allow time for security screening and to locate the correct courtroom. Turn off mobile devices before entering.
Parties are permitted to self-represent, but should familiarize themselves with court rules and procedures. The court staff can provide basic procedural guidance, but cannot give legal advice.
Legal representation is strongly recommended for appeals as the process involves complex legal arguments.
Civil Cases
Disputes between private parties seeking monetary compensation or specific performance
Criminal Cases
State prosecuting individuals for alleged violations of criminal law
Criminal cases may result in fines, imprisonment, or other penalties, while civil cases typically involve financial remedies.
Contact and Support
General Inquiries
Phone: +268 2404 1000
Email: admin@judiciary.org.sz
Help Desk
Visit any Magistrate Court registry for in-person assistance.
Support Services
- Interpreter services available on request.
- Assistance for persons with disabilities.