The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has urged Kenyans to verify the credentials of advocates before seeking legal services, warning that dealing with individuals posing as qualified lawyers could expose members of the public to exploitation.

Speaking during Legal Awareness Week 2026, LSK Nairobi Branch Chair Eric Kivuva encouraged the public to use the society’s online portal to confirm the professional and practising status of advocates before entrusting them with legal matters.

Kivuva said verifying an advocate’s credentials was an important step towards protecting the public and ensuring that legal services are provided by qualified practitioners.

The warning follows previous reports of suspected legal impersonators in the country. On September 5, the LSK Nakuru Chapter reported that 14 people suspected of posing as lawyers had been exposed and arrested in Nakuru.

Members of the public can use the LSK online search portal to establish an advocate’s practising status before engaging their services.

Legal Awareness Week runs from October 26 to 30 under the theme, “Community Advocates: Bridging the Gap Between People and Justice.”

The initiative seeks to bring legal services closer to communities and improve access to justice, particularly for people who face difficulties navigating the formal court system.

Speaking at the event, Penina Wanyangu said changes in court operations, including the adoption of virtual proceedings following the COVID-19 pandemic, had transformed how Kenyans access justice.

Wanyangu noted that court buildings could be intimidating to some members of the public, discouraging them from seeking legal assistance when needed.

“This year, we are going to the people,” Wanyangu said, explaining the decision to take legal services beyond court buildings and directly 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.

As part of the initiative, members of the public will receive free legal advice, while advocates will also visit prisons across the country to assist inmates who may require legal guidance.

Wanyangu said LSK branch chairpersons would be responsible for implementing the programme in their respective areas to ensure more communities benefit from the outreach.

She also encouraged participants to register for the exercise, noting that the records would help track clients seeking assistance and the legal advice provided, supporting follow-up services and identifying areas with the greatest need.

Lawyers were equally urged to participate in the programme, with their contributions to public service expected to be recognised through professional service points.

Beyond public legal education, the week will provide opportunities for young lawyers to gain practical experience and mentorship from experienced practitioners, particularly those handling criminal matters.

Through the initiative, LSK aims to strengthen public awareness of legal rights, expand access to legal assistance and build trust between advocates and the communities they serve