This page is written for children and young people in Zambia. Learn about your rights, what to do if you're in trouble, and who can help you.
The law protects you. Here are your most important rights — especially if you are ever in trouble with the police or courts.
No matter what happened, you must always be treated with kindness and respect. No one is allowed to hurt you, shout at you cruelly, or humiliate you — at police stations, courts, or anywhere.
If you are arrested or taken to court, you have the right to a free lawyer — even if your family cannot afford one. Always ask for a lawyer before answering any questions.
If you are held at a police station or in custody, you must always be kept completely separate from adult prisoners. This is protected by law.
If you are arrested, the police must contact your parents or guardians as soon as possible. Your family has the right to know where you are and to come and see you.
For many first-time or minor offences, you may be diverted away from court and helped in the community instead — no criminal record.
In court and in all official processes, your voice matters. A magistrate must listen to you and consider your situation before making any decision.
Do you know your rights? Try all 15 questions and find out!
👆 Select an answer to move on — 15 questions total!
Real voices. Real stories. Children who have been through the justice system share their experiences to help you understand — you are not alone.
Loading stories…
A child who went through the diversion programme instead of court shares how it helped them go back to school and make things right in the community.
A child describes what it was like going to the Children's Court for the first time, and how the Legal Aid lawyer helped them feel less frightened.
A young person explains how the Social Welfare Officer at the police station made sure their family was called and their rights were protected.
Stories are managed in the Admin panel → Audio Stories collection in Firestore.
Learning books, stories, activity sheets, and entertainment materials just for you!
If you are in trouble or you know a child who needs help, contact any of these people or organisations.
The Child Justice Forum Secretariat coordinates help for children in Zambia's justice system.
📧 CJF-Z@judiciaryzambia.com
Free, confidential helplines for children in distress or danger. Available across Zambia.
📞 116
📞 933
Toll-free · Call any time
Provides free lawyers for children who cannot afford legal representation anywhere in Zambia.
Free legal help across Zambia
Social welfare officers help children at police stations and support families through the justice process.
Available at every police station
Investigates complaints if your rights have been violated by any government institution.
Independent oversight body
Need to find the nearest Legal Aid office, Social Welfare officer, or police station near you?
Play games to learn about your rights! Based on the Children's Code Act of Zambia.
Flip the cards and match each right with what it means. Find all 8 pairs!
The Child Justice Forum exists to make sure every child in Zambia is treated with fairness, dignity, and care. Whatever you're facing, there is always someone who can help.
