Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

This page provides general information about the role of Attorneys-at-Law, Barristers-at-Law and Notaries in Mauritius and about areas of law handled by the practice.

Etude Elaheebocus is an attorney-led practice. Where a matter requires the intervention of a barrister or notary, the relevant practitioners may be instructed or liaised with as required.
Civil litigation Property and land law Co-ownership and partition Family law Successions and wills Immigration matters Technology and digital evidence Intellectual property

You generally need an attorney when you want legal advice, you are facing a dispute, you want to start or defend a civil case, or you need guidance and coordination for a legal process.

  • Land disputes, boundary issues, servitudes, indivision
  • Contract problems, unpaid debts, damages, negligence
  • Family matters and personal status issues
  • Succession issues and disputes between heirs
  • Injunctions and urgent court applications

We advise and represent clients mainly in civil and property matters, including land disputes, co-ownership issues (indivision), successions and wills, family law, contractual and tortious claims, injunctions, immigration matters, and technology-related legal issues.

A full overview is available on the Practice Areas page.

In Mauritius, different legal professionals have different roles:

  • Attorney-at-Law (avoué) - usually the first point of contact. Attorneys advise, prepare documents, handle procedure, file cases, manage correspondence, and coordinate the matter.
  • Barrister-at-Law (avocat) - focuses mainly on advocacy and pleadings in court, including hearings and trials, and complex legal argument.
  • Notary (notaire) - prepares and executes authentic acts, such as property transfers, certain types of wills, marriage contracts, and other notarised acts required by law.

A barrister is typically required for pleadings and advocacy in court, especially for hearings and trials where oral argument is central. Where the intervention of a barrister or notary is required, the attorney may liaise with the relevant practitioner. A client remains free to retain a barrister or notary of his or her choice.

You usually need a notary for authentic acts such as buying or selling immovable property, certain notarised wills, and other acts that must be notarised by law. If your matter requires a notary, we can guide you and work with a notarial collaborator.

While we operate as an attorney-led practice and where a matter requires a barrister or a notary, we can arrange this for you through our network, so you do not have to navigate the system alone.

A client may also retain his or her own barrister or notary.

Fees depend on the nature and complexity of the matter. Depending on the case, fees may be structured as a fixed fee for a defined task, or another agreed structure suitable for the matter.

If a barrister or notary is involved, they have their own fee arrangements. We aim to explain clearly which professionals are required, why they are needed, and how fees are likely to be structured.

This is a common question in Mauritius. In many cases, co-ownership creates practical and legal constraints.

The appropriate course will depend on the title documents, the respective rights of the co-owners and the circumstances of the matter.

Start by gathering any relevant documents (title deed, survey plan, correspondence, photos, messages). Early advice helps clarify your rights and possible actions, including pre-action steps, court applications, and protective measures.

Yes. We handle matters such as divorce, child custody and access rights, maintenance, enforcement and variation of court orders, possession d’état, and tardy declaration of birth, among others.

Family matters are handled with discretion, professionalism, and confidentiality.

Yes. We assist with succession matters and disputes between heirs. If a notarial step is required, we can coordinate with a notary or work with your own.

Yes. We provide legal assistance for visa and residency applications, occupation permits, renewals, and compliance-related guidance.

Yes. We handle technology-related legal matters, including issues involving digital evidence and authenticity, data protection concerns, confidentiality breaches, technology contracts, and disputes arising from digital platforms.

If you wish to request an appointment, you may contact us via the Contact page. If possible, bring or share relevant documents such as contracts, court papers, title deeds, correspondence, photos, or digital records related to your matter.