Why Choose Law & Public Service?
Law and Public Service are among the most respected careers in Kenya. Lawyers defend rights, judges deliver justice, and public servants run the country. With Kenya's devolved government (47 counties), thousands of public service jobs are created yearly.
Core subjects: English/Kiswahili, History, CRE, Mathematics, Business Studies
English is MANDATORY for law school.
What They Do
Lawyers represent clients in court, draft legal documents, advise on legal matters, and help resolve disputes. In Kenya, lawyers work in law firms, corporations, NGOs, or government (State Law Office, DPP).
Skills You Need
Where to Study
Years of Study
4 years LLB + 1 year Kenya School of Law (KSL) + 6 months pupillage = 5.5-6 years total
Pros
- High earning potential
- Respected profession
- Can work anywhere in the world
- Make a difference in people's lives
Cons
- Long training (6 years)
- High stress, long hours
- Competitive admission to KSL
- Courtroom work can be intimidating
What They Do
Judges preside over court cases, interpret laws, and deliver verdicts. You must be a lawyer first (minimum 5-10 years experience) before becoming a judge.
Pros
- Highest respect in legal profession
- Excellent salary and benefits
- Job security (appointed until retirement)
Cons
- Requires 5-10 years as lawyer first
- Heavy responsibility (people's lives in your hands)
- Political appointment process
What They Do
Police officers maintain law and order, prevent crime, and investigate criminal activity. DCI detectives specialize in solving complex crimes (murder, theft, cybercrime).
Where to Study
Pros
- Guaranteed government job after training
- Pension and benefits
- Opportunity to serve the nation
Cons
- Dangerous work
- Public sometimes mistrusts police
- Odd hours, shift work
What They Do
Public administrators manage government departments, implement policies, and oversee public services. Since devolution, thousands work at county governments.
Where to Study
Alternative Paths to Law & Public Service
Diploma in Law (2 years)
Direct Police Recruitment
County Government Jobs
How Much Will It Cost?
| Program | Total Tuition (KES) | Years |
|---|---|---|
| LLB (Public University) | 400,000 - 800,000 | 4 years |
| Kenya School of Law (KSL) | 150,000 - 250,000 | 1 year |
| Diploma in Law | 80,000 - 150,000 | 2 years |
Funding Options
- HELF — Available for LLB and postgraduate
- County Bursaries — Apply at Ward Office
- Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Scholarships — For law students
- NGO Scholarships — Equity, KCB, Safaricom Foundation
Where Can You Work?
Professional Bodies You Must Join
| Career | Registration Body |
|---|---|
| Lawyer / Advocate | Law Society of Kenya (LSK) |
| Judge / Magistrate | Judicial Service Commission (JSC) |
| Police Officer | National Police Service (NPS) / DCI |
| Public Administrator | Public Service Commission (PSC) |
You must register with LSK to practice as an advocate in Kenya. For judges, appointment is done by JSC.
Law Career Resources
Exploring Other Pathways?
Law not the right fit? Check out our other career guides:
Not sure which career fits? Take the Free Career Quiz →
Sources: LSK · KSL · JSC · KNBS 2025
Last updated: January 2026