The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has announced a reduction in fees for acquiring a practicing certificate as part of efforts to ease the financial burden on advocates.

In a statement on August 7, LSK President Faith Odhiambo confirmed that the Parliamentary Committee on Delegated Legislation had approved the reduction in support of budding young advocates.

“The Law Society of Kenya council is happy to announce that the National Assembly Committee on Delegated Legislation ratified the move to reduce practicing certificate fees for newly admitted advocates,” read the statement.

Odhiambo explained that the new rates, outlined in Legal Notices 110 and 111 dated July 15, 2024, reflect the unique challenges faced by law practitioners at all levels.

“The new rates as indicated in Legal Notices 110 and 111 of 15th July 2024 are reflective of the unique circumstances faced by practitioners at every level, while maintaining the balance of reasonable resources required for the proper functioning of the Society.”

Details of the New Approved Charges 

According to a special gazette notice the new annual subscription fees are as follows.

1. A member who has practiced for a period of more than five years: Ksh 7,300
2. A member who has practiced for a period of three years but not more than five years: Ksh 4500
3. A member who has practiced for a period of two years but not more than three years: Ksh 3000
4. A member who has practiced for a period of one year but not more than two years: Ksh2,000
5. A member who has practiced for not more than one year: Ksh 1,000
6. A member who is over seventy years of age or is a non-practicing member: Ksh 2,250

The charges for members who have been on the Roll of Advocates are as follows.

1. An advocate who has been on the Roll of Advocates for a period of five years or more: Ksh 3,000
2. An advocate who has been on the Roll of Advocates for a period of three years but not more than five years: Ksh 3000
3. An advocate who has been on the Roll of Advocates for a period of two years but not more than three years: Ksh 2000
4. An advocate who has been on the Roll of Advocates for a period of one year but not more than two years: Ksh 1500
5. An advocate who has been on the Roll of Advocates for not more than one year: Ksh 1000

Supportive Environment for LSK Members 

Faith Odhiambo emphasized that this adjustment is designed to create a more supportive environment for young lawyers as they begin their careers.

“We believe that this reduction will facilitate more tenable realities for young advocates as they begin their careers and navigate the onset difficulties of the legal profession.”

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Furthermore, she expressed gratitude to all members who contributed to the fee-setting process and reiterated LSK’s commitment to improving the legal practice environment for its members.

“We appreciate all members who have taken part in the setting of the new fees,” she said.

“The council remains committed to improving the legal practice environment and delivering the best outcomes for all our members.”

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