National Legal Aid Service

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Overview

  • Act: National Legal Aid Service Act, 2016 (Act No. 6 of 2016)
  • Formed: 2017
  • CEO: Ms. Fresiah Githumbi
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The National Legal Aid Service (NLAS) in Kenya was established under the National Legal Aid Service Act, 2016 (Act No. 6 of 2016) and began operations in 2017. Its mandate is to provide free legal services to vulnerable individuals who cannot afford legal representation. The service aims to enhance access to justice by offering legal assistance in civil, criminal, and family matters. NLAS also plays a key role in promoting legal literacy, human rights, and the rule of law, ensuring that the legal needs of marginalized groups are met effectively.

CEO: Fresiah Githumbi

Ms. Fresiah Githumbi is the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Legal Aid Service (NLAS) in Kenya. She has a strong legal background and extensive experience in public service. Ms. Githumbi has been pivotal in enhancing access to justice and legal assistance for vulnerable and marginalized communities in Kenya.

Functions

  • Provision of Legal Aid: Offer free legal services to individuals who cannot afford legal representation, ensuring access to justice.
  • Legal Representation: Provide legal representation in criminal, civil, and family matters to vulnerable groups, including those in detention or custody.
  • Public Legal Education: Promote legal literacy by offering public education on legal rights, responsibilities, and the justice system.
  • Legal Advice and Counseling: Provide legal advice and counseling to individuals seeking guidance on legal issues.
  • Assist in Alternative Dispute Resolution: Facilitate mediation, arbitration, and other forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to resolve legal disputes.
  • Research and Advocacy: Conduct research and advocate for the reform of laws that affect access to justice for marginalized populations.
  • Capacity Building: Train lawyers, paralegals, and community leaders to improve the delivery of legal aid services.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation: Monitor the quality of legal aid services provided, ensuring adherence to professional standards and ethics.
  • Collaborate with Other Agencies: Work with government agencies, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure comprehensive legal aid services.
  • Promote Human Rights: Support the protection and promotion of human rights, particularly for vulnerable populations, through legal assistance.

Important Links

Address & Contacts

  • P.O. Box 45597 – 00100 Nairobi
  • National Legal Aid Service
  • Kenya Charity Sweepstake (KCS) House, 9th Floor, Nairobi
  • info@nationallegalaid.go.ke
  • (+254) 110149938| (+254) 110149935|(+254) 110149939