LSK flags sexual harassment targeting junior lawyers

thenamlola@gmail.com

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has raised the alarm over what it describes as persistent sexual harassment targeting junior lawyers, warning that silence, fear and power imbalance are entrenching abuse within the legal profession.

In a statement on Monday, LSK President Faith Odhiambo said the society was concerned by increasing reports from young advocates and pupil advocates being subjected to sexual advances, intimidation and exploitation by seniors in chambers and legal workplaces.

“The legal profession is not immune to abuse of power,” Ms Odhiambo said.

She noted that junior lawyers—particularly women—often feel trapped by dependency on seniors for mentorship, briefs and career progression.

LSK said many victims opt to remain silent for fear of victimisation, blacklisting or stalled careers, creating what the society termed a “culture of impunity” within sections of the profession.

The society called on law firms and legal institutions to put in place clear reporting mechanisms, enforce zero-tolerance policies and ensure that complaints are handled confidentially and without retaliation.

It also urged victims to come forward, assuring them of support and protection.

“We cannot speak of justice while tolerating injustice within our own ranks,” the LSK president said.

She warned that the society would not hesitate to pursue disciplinary action against advocates found culpable.

The statement comes amid wider national conversations on workplace harassment and professional accountability, with LSK signalling that the legal sector must lead by example.

LSK said further guidance and interventions aimed at protecting junior lawyers would be rolled out in the coming weeks, even as it pressed for collective responsibility from senior members of the Bar to mentor, not exploit, those entering the profession.