Our Commitment to Access to Justice
At Chesoli & Company Advocates, we believe that quality legal services should not be a privilege reserved for those who can afford them. Through our Social Responsibility Department, we are committed to providing pro bono legal services to individuals and communities who cannot afford legal representation.
What Is Pro Bono?
Pro bono (short for "pro bono publico," meaning "for the public good") refers to legal services provided voluntarily and without charge to individuals or organizations unable to pay for them. Pro bono work is an integral part of our firm's culture and values.
Our Pro Bono Initiatives
Kenya Christian Lawyers Fellowship (KCLF)
We have been actively involved in carrying out legal duties for the Kenya Christian Lawyers Fellowship, providing pro-bono legal services to those in need within the Christian community and beyond.
Christian Legal Aid and Research (CLEAR)
Through our partnership with CLEAR, we provide legal research and aid services to underserved communities, helping them navigate legal challenges and access justice.
International Commission of Jurists (ICJ)
We collaborate with the ICJ Kenya chapter on various human rights initiatives, including providing legal representation to human rights defenders and marginalized communities.
Inter-medical Legal Unit (IMLU)
Our partnership with IMLU allows us to provide integrated medical-legal services to vulnerable populations, including victims of torture, police brutality, and gender-based violence.
Types of Pro Bono Services We Offer
- Legal Advice and Consultation - Free initial consultations for qualifying individuals
- Legal Representation - Court representation in appropriate cases
- Legal Research - Research on legal issues affecting underserved communities
- Community Legal Education - Workshops and seminars on legal rights and responsibilities
- Document Drafting - Preparation of basic legal documents such as wills, contracts, and affidavits
- Alternative Dispute Resolution - Mediation and negotiation services
Eligibility for Pro Bono Services
Pro bono services are available to individuals and organizations that meet the following criteria:
- Inability to afford legal fees (means test applied)
- The legal matter has merit
- The matter falls within our areas of expertise
- We have the capacity to take on the matter
Preference is given to matters involving fundamental human rights, protection of vulnerable populations, and public interest issues.
Our Impact
Since our establishment in 2020, we have:
- Provided pro bono legal services to over 200 individuals
- Conducted 15 community legal education workshops
- Successfully represented numerous clients in pro bono matters
- Partnered with 4 organizations to expand access to justice
- Contributed over 500 volunteer hours to pro bono work
Case Studies
Defending the Rights of a Widow
We represented a widow whose late husband's family was attempting to evict her and her children from their matrimonial home. Through our pro bono representation, we successfully defended her rights under the Law of Succession Act and the Matrimonial Property Act.
Employment Dispute for a Low-Income Worker
We assisted a factory worker who was unfairly dismissed without notice or terminal benefits. Through negotiation and mediation, we secured a fair settlement for our client.
How to Apply for Pro Bono Services
If you believe you qualify for our pro bono services, please:
- Contact our office at 0719859113 or chessadvocates@gmail.com
- Explain your legal situation and why you cannot afford legal fees
- Provide any documentation supporting your case
- Our Pro Bono Committee will review your application and notify you of our decision
Support Our Pro Bono Work
If you are in a position to support our pro bono initiatives, consider:
- Making a financial donation to support our pro bono cases
- Referring pro bono cases to our firm
- Partnering with us on community legal education initiatives
- Volunteering your professional skills (for lawyers and law students)
Conclusion
At Chesoli & Company Advocates, we are proud of our pro bono work and remain committed to making justice accessible to all, regardless of financial means. Access to justice is not a luxury; it is a fundamental right.
If you need legal assistance but cannot afford it, please reach out to our Pro Bono Department. We are here to help.