This article focuses on the requirements to open a law firm in Kenya. Law is one of the best paying careers in Kenya, especially if you have established your own law firm. Many lawyers in the country who have established and built their brands are making millions from their law firms.
The legal profession is very wide. To effectively build and establish your brand, it is advisable to choose an area of practice. Some of the areas of practice include;
- Family law.
- Criminal law.
- Labour law.
- Intellectual property law.
- Constitution law.
- Business law.
Requirements to Open a Law Firm in Kenya
1. Letter of no objection/ approval letter from the Law Society of Kenya (LSK). LSK is Kenya’s premier bar association with membership of all practising advocates.
You have to be a member of LSK for you to practice as an advocate of the High Court of Kenya.
2. Have a Degree in law from a university recognised in Kenya.
3. Have a Diploma in Law from Kenya School of Law.
4. Have a law practising certificate.
How to Establish a Law Firm in Kenya
Before registering your law firm, you have to decide on your area of specialisation to easily build your brand.
Here is a guide on how to register a law firm in Kenya.
1. Register a business name. This can be done on the e-citizen portal.
You can register the law firm as a;
(i). Sole proprietorship. This costs Kshs 1,000.
(ii). Partnership. This costs Kshs 25,000.
(iii). Limited liability. This also costs Kshs 25,000.
2. Get an approval letter/ letter of no objection from the Law Society of Kenya.
3. Register your law firm with Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for the purpose of taxation. As a law-abiding citizen, you have to pay taxes as required.
4. Choose a strategic location for setting up the law firm. It should be in a place where you can easily attract clients.
5. Launch your law firm once you have identified a strategic location.
Check Out:
- Top 10 Best Law Firms In Kenya
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List Of Lawyers And Law Firms Offering Pro Bono Legal Services In Kenya
