The Office of the Attorney General & Department of Justice has officially announced the recruitment of seventy (70) highly motivated Kenyans for its Pupillage Programme 2025. This six-month program offers law graduates an invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience within the legal framework of government institutions, commencing in January 2025. This initiative is in line with Section 14 of the Advocates Act (CAP. 16) and the Kenya School of Law Pupillage Guidelines 2023.
Overview of the Programme
The Pupillage Programme is a key training ground for aspiring legal professionals, especially those who have completed their law degree and are in the process of joining the legal profession in Kenya. This government-backed scheme is designed to provide practical training and equip participants with the skills needed to excel in various legal disciplines.
Qualification Requirements
Applicants must meet the following qualifications to be eligible for the pupillage opportunity:
- Education: Must hold a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from a recognized university.
- Citizenship: Must be a Kenyan citizen with a valid National Identity Card.
- Recommendations: A letter from the Kenya School of Law recommending the candidate for pupillage.
- Documents: Copies of academic certificates and testimonials.
Personal Attributes Required
The Attorney General’s Office is looking for candidates who demonstrate the following key personal attributes:
- Strong Communication Skills: Both in English and Kiswahili, essential for effective engagement in a legal environment.
- Teamwork and Initiative: The ability to work collaboratively, be proactive, and take on challenges within a dynamic team.
- Interest in Public Service: A passion for contributing to the legal justice system and making an impact within public institutions.
- Computer Literacy: Familiarity with basic computer operations, which is vital for handling legal documents and correspondence.
How to Apply
Applicants interested in the Pupillage Programme 2025 must follow these steps:
- Download the Application Form: The form is available online and must be filled out accurately with all required details.
- Submission Deadline: The completed application form should be sent via email to pupillage@ag.go.ke on or before 24th October 2024.
- Required Attachments: Applicants are required to attach their application form, a copy of their National Identity Card, academic documents, and a recommendation letter from the Kenya School of Law.
- Important Notice: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. It is critical that applicants ensure they have all necessary documents before submission, as incomplete applications will not be considered.
Why the Pupillage Programme Matters
Pupillage is a significant step in the career journey of law graduates in Kenya. It serves as the bridge between academic learning and practical legal experience, a requirement before one can be admitted to the Kenya School of Law’s Advocates Training Programme (ATP) and eventually become an advocate of the High Court of Kenya.
By joining the Attorney General’s Pupillage Programme, participants have the opportunity to:
- Gain practical insights into how government legal departments operate.
- Work closely with experienced legal professionals, including state counsels and senior advocates.
- Build networks within the Kenyan legal fraternity.
- Contribute to national and county government cases, contracts, and legislation.
Key Responsibilities of Pupils
Pupils selected for this programme will be exposed to a variety of legal tasks, including:
- Drafting legal documents and contracts.
- Participating in legal research and case preparation.
- Assisting with court filings and attending court sessions.
- Collaborating on constitutional and administrative law matters.
- Working on litigation cases, both civil and criminal.
Why Choose the Attorney General’s Office?
The Attorney General’s Office plays a critical role in Kenya’s justice system, offering unparalleled exposure to legal matters ranging from constitutional interpretation to the defense of government interests in court. For a budding lawyer, this environment offers rich learning opportunities that can shape a successful legal career.
Moreover, this programme serves as a stepping stone for those aiming to advance into public service law or practice law within government circles, contributing directly to the shaping of national legal policies and public governance.
The Attorney General’s Pupillage Programme is a golden opportunity for Kenyan law graduates looking to take the next step in their legal careers. With just seventy (70) slots available, competition is expected to be fierce. Eligible candidates should act swiftly and submit their applications before the 24th October 2024 deadline.
This programme is not just about fulfilling a legal requirement but also about gaining crucial experience that could define a successful future in the legal profession.
For more details on how to apply, visit the Attorney General’s Office website or email the pupillage office at pupillage@ag.go.ke.
