The Law Society of Zimbabwe was formed in 1981 to replace the previous bar association. The membership of LSZ is drawn from all registered legal practitioners residing in Zimbabwe whether in private practice, in commerce or in civil service.

The primary duties of the law society are: to promote the study of the law; to contribute, undertake or make recommendations on legal training; to control  admission of new members to the profession; maintain a register of members; regulate the profession in respect of continuing training, discipline and trust accounts; represent the profession and articulate its views on various issues; promote justice, defend human rights, rule of law and the independence of the judiciary; and generally control and manage the legal profession. The vision of the law society is to be a world class, independent, law society committed to justice and the rule of law.

The LSZ is dedicated to effectively and efficiently representing and regulating the legal profession to promote the sustainable development of the legal profession, the observance of the rule of law, and foster public trust and confidence in the justice system. The LSZ Council and all members of its management and staff are united by the core values that they each uphold, as individuals and as a team. The organizational culture at the LSZ is shaped by the following shared core values.

• Professionalism – The LSZ team is competent and efficient. They are highly responsive to the needs of their stakeholders.
• Leadership - They take their obligations as custodians of the law seriously.
• Independence - In the exercise of their independence, they have the courage and fortitude to resist all forms of undue external influence.
• Transparency – They pride themselves in their integrity and honesty; and uphold the principle that all people should be held accountable for their actions.
• Equity - They uphold the principles of equity, fairness and impartiality in the discharge of their duties.