Hard times for lawyers as coronavirus bites

Lawyer's wig on an antique desk. [Courtesy]

Several law firms across the country have fired staff due to challenges associated with Covid-19.

South West Kenya Law Society of Kenya chairperson Wilkins Ochoki said the legal sector was among those hit hard by Covid-19 and was trying to stay afloat.

Ochoki said most advocates no longer travel across the country to represent their clients since they are now forced to work digitally, forcing them to do away with most of their staff.

“Some of our members can no longer pay rent for their premises and are struggling to pay their employees,” said Ochoki.

Speaking during the launch of Jiajiri Sacco in Ogembo town yesterday, Ochoki said law firms across the country were struggling financially, with some young advocates in major cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru and Kisumu forced to go back home due to limited work.

He said if the situation continues for the next year, there would be more job losses in the sector.

Ochoki said most litigants had challenges following up their cases virtually due to digital handicaps like not having email addresses.

“Most litigants cannot make submissions virtually. This has affected dispensation of justice," he said.