LSK intensifies crackdown on fake lawyers in nationwide cleanup

LSK President Faith Odhiambo [LSK/X]

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has intensified efforts to curb the activities of individuals allegedly posing as lawyers, in a renewed campaign to uphold professional standards and protect the public from exploitation by unqualified persons.

The move follows growing public concern over reports of fake advocates and unlicensed law offices operating in various parts of the country.

In a statement, the Society said it had conducted an enforcement exercise in Malindi, Kilifi County, where several offices suspected to be operating without proper authorisation were identified and closed.

The operation was led by LSK Vice President Mwaura Kabata, Council Member Teresia Wavinya — who also co-convenes the Practice Standards Committee — and Siry Kiponda, Chairperson of the LSK Malindi Chapter.

“Upon investigation, the team uncovered instances where clerks were allegedly impersonating advocates and handling sensitive legal matters in cyber cafés, which undermines legal ethics and client confidentiality,” the statement said.

According to the Society, some of the individuals were found drafting legal documents, managing client cases, and purporting to represent clients in legal proceedings — actions prohibited under Kenya’s legal and ethical framework.

The LSK said it issued closure notices, effective October 23, 2025, to all offices operating without duly admitted advocates or registered legal assistants.

The Society further warned that any individuals or entities found evading inspection or continuing to operate without authorization risk facing legal action.

Council Member Wavinya noted that some suspected impersonators reportedly fled after learning of the LSK’s presence, but said investigations are still underway.

The Society reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the public and maintaining the integrity of the legal profession.

The operation is part of a broader national initiative by the LSK’s Practice Standards and Ethics (PSE) Committee, in collaboration with regional branches, to eliminate unqualified legal practice.

The Society said similar enforcement exercises will be rolled out in other counties in the coming weeks.

To strengthen oversight, the LSK Council is empowering all branches, chapters, and centers across the country to operationalise active Practice Standards and Ethics Committees.

“These committees will receive support and funding to establish Rapid Action Teams (R.A.T.) to enable swift intervention in cases of professional misconduct and ethical violations,” the statement added.

The Society also encouraged members of the public to verify the credentials of advocates through its official portal and to report any suspicious or unauthorised legal activities to the nearest LSK office.

The Law Society of Kenya is mandated to regulate the legal profession, ensure compliance with ethical and professional standards, and protect the public from unqualified practitioners.

It also represents advocates’ interests, promotes access to justice, and upholds the rule of law in Kenya.