LSK: 90% of paid-up lawyers receive 2026 practising certificates

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has provided an update on the progress of 2026 Practising Certificate (PC) applications, noting significant progress under its new ERP Bespoke Integrated System.

As of January 27, 2026, LSK reported receiving and invoicing 12,378 applications. Of these, 8,120 members had completed payment, while 4,258 had not yet paid.

LSK said that 7,048 practising certificates have been processed and issued, representing nearly 90% of duly paid applications.

In a statement, LSK President Faith Odhiambo said the Society remains committed to supporting lawyers through the process.

“Members are urged to ensure that their applications are complete and accurate. Receipts and practising certificates will only be issued once documents have been verified and approved. Our verification process is ongoing, and we continue to provide support to members with outstanding issues. We are committed to ensuring that every practising lawyer receives their certificate on time,” she said.

Odhiambo also thanked members for their patience, noting the progress made.

“We thank members for their patience as the Law Society of Kenya continues to process the 2026 PC applications. Nearly 90% of duly paid-up applicants have been issued with their practising certificates. We will give further updates as we make more progress,” she added.

The Secretariat said some applications had incomplete or inaccurate documentation.

Affected members have been notified and requested to regularize their submissions before January 30, 2026, to enable processing.

To accelerate issuance, Odhiambo confirmed that LSK had deployed additional staff to assist with application processing during this period.

“Our aim is to ensure a smooth, timely issuance of all practising certificates for 2026,” she said.

The update follows an earlier notice issued on January 14, 2026, highlighting the Society’s efforts to improve efficiency and support members.

Practising certificates are mandatory for advocates who intend to offer legal services in Kenya. Issued annually by the LSK, the certificates authorize lawyers to engage in legal practice, appear before courts and tribunals, and perform professional functions within the legal sector.

Applications for practising certificates are processed through the LSK Secretariat, which verifies compliance requirements including membership status, payment of annual dues, and submission of accurate documentation. Advocates without valid certificates are barred from practising and may face sanctions if they operate without one.

For the 2026 cycle, LSK is issuing practising certificates through its new ERP Bespoke Integrated System, designed to streamline invoicing, verification and issuance.

Practising certificates are typically issued early in the year, with deadlines set to ensure advocates remain compliant ahead of the legal calendar.