Hope Law Chambers (HLC) is a law firm founded by Barrister Steve MASSIEGMO, Attorney at law registered at the Cameroon and Rwanda Bars Associations.

Its headquarter is in Kigali, Rwanda, but the firm is expanding its activities to other countries, including Cameroon, where we have a representation office since 2023.

About us

In the business world where disputes can quickly become costly and time-consuming, arbitration and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) offer efficient, confidential, and flexible solutions. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we assist our clients in managing conflicts by prioritizing alternative approaches such as mediation, conciliation, or arbitration. With our expertise, we help resolve commercial, contractual, or international disputes in a quick and fair manner. We are involved at every stage of the process—from drafting arbitration clauses to representing clients before local or international arbitration tribunals. With HLC by your side, you gain a committed legal partner dedicated to finding pragmatic and lasting solutions to your disputes.

In the highly strategic banking and financial sector, solid legal expertise is crucial to ensure compliance and secure transactions. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we advise financial institutions, businesses, and investors on a wide range of legal matters. From structuring complex financing arrangements to negotiating loan agreements and ensuring regulatory compliance at both local and international levels, we provide tailored support. We also handle financial disputes and assess legal risks related to banking operations. With HLC as your partner, you can confidently address all your banking and financial challenges.

In a constantly evolving economic environment, commercial law is essential to ensure the legal security of transactions and business relationships. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we support businesses in all legal aspects related to their commercial activities. From drafting commercial contracts to managing disputes and providing strategic advice on partnerships or mergers, we deliver tailored solutions to meet our clients’ specific needs. We also ensure compliance with local and international regulations to protect your interests while fostering growth. With HLC by your side, your business operations are built on a solid legal foundation.

HLC with a spirit of hope, progress, and awakening of Africa's youth, who possess an immeasurable number of talents. We are thus composed of bold, dynamic, entrepreneurial, and competent young lawyers, who are dedicated not only to our clients but also to the perpetuation of the values of equity and justice. In a vast and diversified legal market, we have chosen to surround ourselves with lawyers whose collective expertise covers numerous fields. The idea is to make law accessible while offering innovative and diversified solutions, with a constant focus on quality and efficiency. With us, every case or client is a serious priority. Team spirit, dedication, diligence, professionalism, responsiveness, and availability are the qualities we offer, with the sole aim of becoming your trusted ally in every concern.

Our commitments

Consumer law is a cornerstone for ensuring balance between consumers and businesses. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we understand the challenges in this field and provide tailored support to both individuals and companies. For businesses, we ensure that their products and services comply with legal standards while building customer trust through transparent and fair commercial practices. For consumers, our mission is to defend their rights when faced with defective products, non-compliant services, or abusive practices. We also assist in resolving disputes, drafting customized contracts, and anticipating legal risks in commercial relationships. With HLC by your side, you benefit from comprehensive legal support that protects your interests while fostering harmonious business relationships.

Contact

Corporate law is at the heart of business operations, whether it involves formation, management, or restructuring.

At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we support our clients at every stage of their company’s lifecycle. We assist in company incorporation by ensuring that statutes comply with legal requirements and align with strategic goals. We also provide expertise in drafting shareholder agreements, managing mergers and acquisitions, and resolving internal disputes. With our guidance, businesses can navigate complex legal environments while safeguarding their interests and promoting growth.

Corporate law

Criminal law is one of the most sensitive areas of law as it directly impacts an individual’s freedom and reputation. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we provide rigorous defense and personalized support to clients facing criminal charges. Whether it involves minor offenses or serious crimes, we assist at every stage of the process—from preliminary investigations to court proceedings. We also represent victims of criminal acts in their pursuit of justice and compensation. With our expertise, we ensure that your rights are fully respected and that you receive a strong and fair defense.

Discover our areas of expertise

At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we advise both employers and employees on their respective rights and obligations under the law. We assist with drafting legally compliant employment contracts, resolving disputes related to dismissals or working conditions as well as ensuring adherence to social norms and regulations. In case of litigation before competent courts or tribunals, we provide effective representation to defend your interests. With HLC’s guidance in employment law matters, you can navigate workplace challenges confidently.

Employment law governs the relationship between employers and employees—a field where human and legal considerations are closely intertwined.

Employment law

Environmental protection has become a global priority with constantly evolving legal frameworks. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we help our clients integrate environmental considerations into their activities while complying with local and international regulations. We assist in managing projects with environmental impacts through environmental impact assessments and compliance with ecological standards. We also provide guidance on environmental litigation and corporate social responsibility in sustainability matters. Partnering with HLC means choosing a legal approach that balances economic performance with environmental responsibility.

Our expertise

Issues related to family and personal law often touch on the most intimate aspects of life. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we provide compassionate and professional support to address these delicate matters. We handle cases involving marriage, divorce, child custody, inheritance disputes, and the protection of fundamental individual rights. Our approach is based on listening carefully to our clients’ needs while maintaining confidentiality and applying in-depth legal expertise to find tailored solutions for each unique situation. With HLC’s guidance, you are supported with sensitivity and professionalism in all your personal legal matters.

At HLC, we seek individuals who embody a spirit of excellence, initiative, and open-mindedness. We value candidates distinguished by their academic success, diverse backgrounds, strong economic awareness, and genuine interest in international matters. Teamwork skills are essential.

Convinced that a well-rounded lawyer must master both legal advisory services and litigation, we provide comprehensive training to our associates and interns in both fields. We offer internship opportunities throughout the year, lasting between 2 and 6 months. To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to: <a> contact@hlc.rw </a>

We are hiring

In a world marked by growing humanitarian crises, humanitarian law plays a vital role in protecting vulnerable populations and supporting those who assist them. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we are deeply committed to defending fundamental rights and providing legal support to humanitarian organizations. We work alongside NGOs and international institutions to ensure their compliance with local and international legal frameworks so they can maximize their impact on the ground. We also advocate for the rights of refugees and marginalized groups by offering tailored legal assistance for their specific needs. Additionally, we provide training on humanitarian law to raise awareness among sector stakeholders about the rules governing their actions. With HLC as your partner, you gain committed legal expertise dedicated to building a fairer world.

In a globalized world where international trade is an essential opportunity, the import-export sector comes with numerous legal challenges. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we leverage our expertise to simplify processes and secure international transactions for businesses. We advise our clients on complex customs and trade regulations, ensuring full compliance with local and international legal requirements. We draft and negotiate robust contracts that safeguard your interests while facilitating fruitful partnerships with your commercial counterparts. In the event of disputes, we act swiftly to defend your rights and find effective solutions. With our deep knowledge of international trade law, we help you navigate this complex legal landscape with confidence and success.

The insurance sector plays a vital role in risk management and the protection of individuals, businesses, and investors. However, it is often complex, with specific regulations and potential disputes that require in-depth legal expertise. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we provide comprehensive legal support in insurance law for both individuals and businesses. Our services include: <ul><li>Compliance advice: Assisting insurance companies and their clients in adhering to local and international laws and regulations. </li><li>Drafting and reviewing insurance contracts: Ensuring your insurance policies are clear, fair, and tailored to your specific needs. </li><li>Claims management: Supporting clients in handling disputes related to insurance claims, whether through negotiations or court representation. </li><li>Corporate insurance: Advising businesses on risk management and best practices in professional insurance coverage. </li><li>Training and awareness: Offering training sessions to better understand the legal implications of insurance contracts. </li></ul>With extensive knowledge of local and international law, we work to protect your rights, resolve disputes, and ensure your interests are always safeguarded.

In a world where innovation drives economic growth, protecting your intellectual creations is crucial.

At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we help our clients secure their intellectual property rights—whether patents, trademarks, copyrights or trade secrets

Intellectual property law

In a world where the reign of digital technology is undeniable, we also make use of ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) and the digitization of files to respond diligently and promptly to your needs.

Our method

The mining sector is an economic pillar for many African countries but is also subject to complex and ever-changing regulations. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we offer specialized expertise to support mining companies and investors in their projects. We assist with obtaining mining licenses, negotiating mining contracts, and ensuring compliance with environmental standards related to extractive activities. We also help our clients navigate local and international legal requirements while managing the legal risks associated with mining operations. With HLC’s legal guidance, your mining projects are secure and positioned for success.

The oil and gas sector is one of the most strategic industries globally but also one of the most heavily regulated. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we bring our expertise to companies involved in exploration, production, or distribution of hydrocarbons. We handle negotiations and drafting of oil and gas contracts; ensure compliance with environmental and fiscal regulations specific to the sector; and assist with licensing processes. We also represent clients in commercial or contractual disputes related to oil and gas activities. With HLC as your legal partner, you gain reliable support to navigate this complex sector while maximizing opportunities.

Our law firm

At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we specialize in technology law to help our clients address issues arising from digital innovation.

Our expertise covers data protection compliance (e.g., GDPR), technology contracts (software licensing or IT development), e-commerce regulations as well as cybersecurity concerns. We also assist startups and established companies in navigating an ever-changing regulatory landscape while safeguarding their digital innovations. With HLC as your legal partner in tech law matters, you are equipped to tackle all challenges in the digital world.

The digital revolution has transformed business operations while introducing complex legal challenges.

Personal data and tech law

Public-private partnerships have become a key tool for developing essential infrastructure while leveraging private resources. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we support both public entities and private companies in structuring and implementing PPP projects. From the initial phases of negotiation to drafting balanced contracts that protect both parties’ interests while adhering to applicable laws, we provide comprehensive assistance throughout the project lifecycle. Our expertise also covers risk management and ongoing legal support during project execution. With HLC as your partner, you can ensure the success of your PPP initiatives.

The real estate sector is a complex field where every transaction requires careful attention to legal details. 

At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we offer comprehensive expertise to guide our clients through their real estate projects.

Construction real estate law

Securities markets are a key driver for raising capital and boosting the economy but are governed by strict regulations requiring specialized expertise. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we assist our clients in navigating financial market operations such as IPOs, bond issuances, and regulatory compliance. We also help companies meet corporate governance requirements and mitigate legal risks associated with securities transactions. Our goal is to ensure that every operation is conducted with full legal security while maximizing your opportunities in financial markets.

Sports are not just about leisure or competition—they are a booming global industry with specific legal challenges.

At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we support athletes, sports clubs, federations, and sponsors in all their legal matters. We handle contract drafting for players or coaches, image rights management, dispute resolution before local or international sports bodies, and compliance with anti-doping regulations. We also advise on commercial partnerships and sponsorship agreements. With HLC’s expertise in sports law, you can protect your interests while achieving success in the sports world.

Sports law

Taxation is a critical area for any business or individual seeking to optimize obligations while remaining compliant with the law. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we adopt a proactive approach to turn tax challenges into strategic opportunities. We assist our clients with tax planning to minimize liabilities while adhering strictly to local and international regulations. In cases of audits or tax investigations, we represent your interests rigorously before competent authorities to secure favorable outcomes. Our expertise also extends to managing tax disputes as well as assisting with complex declarations and payments. With HLC by your side, you gain a tailored tax strategy that supports your growth while ensuring compliance.

Africa, and particularly Rwanda, offers immense potential in the tourism sector. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we support investors, operators, and travelers by providing tailored legal solutions to meet their needs. Our services include: <ul><li>Investor support: Advice on local regulations, tax incentives, and setting up tourism-related businesses.</li><li>Contract drafting: Development of solid agreements for tour operators, hotels, and travel agencies.</li><li>Immigration and visas: Assistance with administrative formalities for travel or work in the region.</li><li>Environmental compliance: Ensuring your projects meet local and international sustainability standards.</li><li>Dispute resolution: Representation in case of conflicts related to your tourism activities.</li></ul> With our local and international expertise, we help you navigate the complex legal landscape of tourism while protecting your interests and promoting sustainable development

The transportation sector is a key driver of international trade and local mobility but operates under complex regulations spanning multiple legal areas. At Hope Law Chambers (HLC), we provide comprehensive legal support for businesses operating in land transport, maritime shipping, or aviation sectors. We assist our clients in drafting transport contracts, managing disputes related to goods or passengers, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards. Our expertise also extends to transport insurance issues and liability matters. With HLC by your side, you can confidently navigate this demanding sector while securing your operations.

Our team

Founder and Managing partner

SteveMASSIEGMO

Senior Associates

NKOUNKEU BIAKEUYves-Roger

IdrissYAPDJIEU

AdrienMBELLA

ChristianANOUKAHA

HyacinteVESSUA

Junior Associates

GuyLéonnel

DJOPNANG FOTSINGSidonie

NabilaLOUH

Legal Counsel

Balla MebeJhovany Gloire

EMANE NDONG ALLAREJesse Gercy

Effale Nsi RhyvalDaniel Le Noble

ANABAGabrielle

Me NYAMerveille Lutrèce

Paralegal

Kesseng ObamaLionelle

SharonNziza

RodrigueNZIMA