As part of efforts to enhance access to justice and lessen the burden of unnecessary pre-trial detentions, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the International Legal Foundation is set to unveil a pioneering pro bono project.
This groundbreaking initiative, called “the impact of early access to quality legal aid on reducing unnecessary and prolonged pre-trial detention,” aims to bring energy into the legal system by introducing pro bono advocates into 60 new misdemeanor cases each month at the Makadara Law Courts.
Additionally, the advocates will handle cases involving both adults and juveniles in a project set to go for a period of one year.
What is Pro bono work?
Pro bono work refers to lawyers offering legal services at no cost. It stands as a cornerstone of support for those who lack the financial means to access legal assistance.
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By engaging in pro bono initiatives, legal practitioners not only fulfill a vital social need but also enhance their skills and thus, broadening their legal knowledge, and contribute meaningfully to society.
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Details of the meeting between the ODPP & the ILF
In a recent meeting held on Monday, March 4, between ODPP and a delegation from the International Legal Foundation (ILF), led by Ms. Jennifer Smith, Executive Director, discussions delved into best practices for reducing pre-trial detention rates.
Alexander Muteti, representing ODPP, highlighted the Office’s existing program, the “All for Justice Initiative,” which aimed to decongest prisons with the final phase completed in 2023.
The discussion also touched on alternatives to prosecution such as diversion and plea bargaining.
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Beyond legal aid provision, ODPP and ILF affirmed their commitment to joint efforts in sensitizing stakeholders on alternatives to prosecution and enhancing the capacity of prosecutors at the Prosecution Training Institute.
This collaborative partnership underscores a shared dedication to social responsibility and justice, highlighting the profound impact that pro bono work can have on individuals and communities in need.
By intertwining legal assistance with strategies for decongesting prisons, this initiative not only aims to provide crucial support but also seeks to address systemic challenges within the justice system, paving the way for a more equitable and efficient legal landscape.
