Lawyers have urged Kenyans to verify the credentials of legal practitioners through the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) portal before engaging their services, amid concerns over individuals allegedly posing as qualified advocates.
Speaking during Legal Awareness Week 2026, LSK Nairobi Branch Chairperson Erick Kivuva cautioned members of the public against falling victim to individuals practising law without the requisite qualifications, urging them to confirm the professional status of advocates before seeking legal representation.
Kivuva encouraged Kenyans to use the LSK portal to establish whether a lawyer is duly recognised, noting that the verification process can help protect the public from potential exploitation and fraudulent legal services.
The campaign also seeks to improve public understanding of the justice system, expand access to legal assistance and create opportunities for young lawyers to gain practical experience through mentorship and professional engagement.
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 observed that court buildings can be intimidating to some members of the public, potentially discouraging them from seeking legal assistance when they need it.
She said Legal Awareness Week seeks to bridge this gap by taking legal services closer to communities and ensuring that access to justice is not limited by people’s backgrounds or circumstances.
“This year, we are going to the people,” Wanyangu said, explaining the initiative’s approach of moving 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.
Wanyangu noted that similar initiatives had previously been introduced to improve access to legal services, adding that the current programme would build on efforts to make legal assistance more accessible.
As part of the programme, members of the public will receive free legal advice, while lawyers will visit prisons across the country to reach inmates who may require legal assistance.
The initiative is expected to provide an opportunity for individuals who face challenges accessing legal representation to seek guidance on their legal concerns.
Wanyangu said LSK branch chairpersons would be expected to implement the initiative in their respective jurisdictions to ensure wider coverage and reach more communities across the country.
She also encouraged participants to register for the exercise, explaining that the process would help establish records of clients seeking assistance and the legal advice provided.
The information collected is expected to support follow-up efforts and help identify communities and groups with the greatest need for legal services.
Wanyangu further urged lawyers to participate actively, noting that their contribution to the public service initiative would be recognised through professional service points.
Beyond public legal education, Legal Awareness Week 2026 is also highlighting the importance of mentorship and practical exposure for emerging legal practitioners, particularly those handling criminal matters.
Organisers said the gathering provides a platform for young lawyers to learn from experienced practitioners, develop practical skills and strengthen their understanding of the day-to-day demands of legal practice.
The initiative seeks to promote a more accessible justice system by connecting communities with qualified legal practitioners, expanding free legal assistance and encouraging lawyers to contribute to public service.
The call for Kenyans to verify advocates’ credentials also underscores the importance of public awareness in protecting individuals seeking legal services and strengthening confidence in the legal profession.
