The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has urged members of the public to verify advocates’ credentials before engaging their services, warning Kenyans against individuals who may falsely present themselves as qualified legal practitioners.
Speaking during Legal Awareness Week 2026, LSK Nairobi Branch Chair Eric Kivuva urged Kenyans to use the society’s online portal to confirm the professional status of advocates before seeking legal services.
Kivuva said checking an advocate’s credentials could help protect members of the public from potential exploitation and ensure they engage qualified practitioners.
The warning comes amid previous reports of suspected legal impersonators in Kenya. On September 5, 14 people suspected of masquerading as lawyers had been exposed and arrested in Nakuru, according to the LSK Nakuru Chapter.
Members of the public can check advocates’ details through the LSK online search portal to establish their practising status before entrusting them with legal matters.
The warning was issued during Legal Awareness Week, running from October 26 to 30, under the theme “Community Advocates (Bridging the Gap Between People and Justice).”
The initiative also seeks to bring legal services closer to communities and improve access to justice for people who may struggle to navigate formal court processes.
Speaking at the event, Penina Wanyangu said changes in court operations, particularly the adoption of virtual proceedings following the COVID-19 pandemic, had transformed how Kenyans interact with the justice system.
Wanyangu noted that court buildings could appear intimidating to many citizens, potentially discouraging them from seeking legal assistance.
“This year, we are going to the people,” Wanyangu said, explaining the initiative’s approach of taking legal services beyond court buildings and into communities.
“For members of the public, this week you don’t have to go to court; lawyers will come to you and help you,” she added.
According to the event remarks, members of the public will receive free legal advice, while lawyers will also visit prisons across the country to reach inmates who may require legal assistance.
Wanyangu said LSK branch chairpersons would be expected to implement the initiative in their respective areas to extend its reach and ensure more communities benefit.
She further encouraged participants to register for the exercise, explaining that registration would help establish records of clients seeking assistance and the legal advice provided.
The information is expected to support follow-up efforts and help identify areas where legal services are most needed.
Wanyangu also encouraged lawyers to participate actively in the programme, noting that their contributions to public service would be recognised through professional service points.
Beyond public legal education, Legal Awareness Week 2026 also provides an opportunity for young lawyers to gain professional exposure and mentorship, particularly those handling criminal matters.
Organisers said the gathering would enable emerging practitioners to learn from experienced colleagues, gain practical experience and strengthen their understanding of legal practice.
Through the initiative, the LSK aims to strengthen public awareness of legal rights, expand access to legal assistance and encourage closer engagement between advocates and the communities they serve.
