A total of 245 aspiring lawyers have formally petitioned the Chief Justice for admission as advocates of the High Court of Kenya, marking a significant milestone in their legal careers.
In a Gazette Notice dated August 1, 2025, Deputy Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, Paul Maina, announced the applications, made pursuant to Section 15(2) of the Advocates Act. This section mandates that any individual seeking admission to the Bar must have their name published for public scrutiny.
The publication is part of a legal process aimed at upholding the integrity of the legal profession. Members of the public or institutions that may have objections regarding the eligibility or character of any of the petitioners have 30 days from the date of the notice to raise their concerns in writing.
“Any member of the public or institution who wishes to object to the admission of any of the persons named herein to do so in writing,” reads the notice. All objections must be addressed to the Chief Registrar of the Judiciary.
This vetting process ensures that only those who meet the academic, professional, and ethical standards required of legal practitioners in Kenya are admitted to the Bar.
To qualify for admission, the petitioners must have completed a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree, passed the bar examinations administered by the Kenya School of Law (KSL), and successfully undergone a six-month pupillage under the supervision of a qualified advocate.
The final step will be an official admission ceremony, often held at the Supreme Court and presided over by the Chief Justice or a designated High Court judge. During the ceremony, successful candidates will take the oath of office and formally become advocates.
Once admitted, these new advocates will be authorized to represent clients in court, offer legal advice, and provide other legal services across various sectors.
Their admission not only marks the culmination of years of rigorous training but also symbolizes a fresh infusion of legal minds into Kenya’s justice system.
