The practice of law in Mombasa embodies the history of the practice of law in Kenya. The first “common law” lawyer began practice in Kenya in Mombasa. The first society for lawyers was as a result established in Mombasa in the late 19th century making it one of the oldest societies in Africa. It was the precursor to the Law Society of Kenya. Today, the Mombasa Law Society remains the representative body for lawyers in Mombasa and the wider Coast Region. Our membership includes advocates practicing and as in house counsel. The Mombasa Law Society’s mission, as a branch of the Law Society of Kenya, is to serve its members and the community by sustaining a competent and independent Bar which upholds the rule of law and ensures access to justice. The Law Society is managed by an elected Council, Sub-Committees and a Secretariat.The purposes and powers of the Mombasa Law Society are provided by, and subject to, the provisions of its constitution and for all intents and purposes acts as the regional branch of the Law Society of Kenya in the Coast Province.
Key purposes of the Mombasa Law Society include: Representing, protecting and assisting members of the Coast legal profession Promoting the interests of the Coast and Mombasa legal profession Maintaining and improving the standards of conduct and learning of the legal profession in Mombasa and Coast in general Protecting and assisting the public in Mombasa in all matters relating to the law Establishing a scheme whereby impecunious persons on non-capital charges including those under the juvenile program are represented by lawyers Coordinating and cooperating with members of civic society to promote and advance the rule of law and access to justice in Mombasa and the Coast. Promoting and improving relationship between the members of the Bar and Bench Partnering and cooperating with other bodies and law societies including the Law Society of Kenya and our sister society, the Liverpool Law Society to facilitate access to justice through various programs and interactions.