The rank of Senior Counsel (SC) represents the pinnacle of achievement in Kenya’s legal profession, reserved for advocates who have demonstrated exceptional competence, integrity, and service to the law.

In Kenya, the title is akin to the United Kingdom’s “Queen’s Counsel” designation, symbolizing both prestige and responsibility.

Advocates who confer this rank enjoy distinct privileges in court and are recognized as leaders within the legal fraternity.

Senior Counsel is a recognition of excellence, awarded to lawyers who have demonstrated exceptional skill, high moral standing, and a commitment to public service and the development of law in Kenya.

The conferment of SC is made by the President of Kenya on the recommendation of the Committee on Senior Counsel, which is established under the Advocates (Senior Counsel Conferment and Privileges) Rules, 2011.

Chaired by the Chief Justice, the Committee includes the Attorney General, the President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), and other distinguished legal professionals.

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Privileges Enjoyed by Senior Counsel

Upon being conferred SC, advocates gain several unique privileges.

They receive precedence in having their matters mentioned in court or tribunals, which allows them to avoid the long waiting lists that many other advocates face.

Additionally, they are entitled to wear the full gown and court-sleeved waistcoat traditionally reserved for judges of the Court of Appeal when appearing robed in court, identifying them as highly experienced and distinguished practitioners.

Another significant benefit is the exclusive right to sit within the Bar in courts that have a designated Bar separating Senior Counsel from other advocates.

In courts without such a Bar, they are entitled to occupy the front bench, a symbolic recognition of their seniority and status within the profession.

Duties and Responsibilities of Senior Counsel

Senior Counsel are expected to lead by example, professionally, ethically and intellectually.

SCs play an essential role in mentoring junior lawyers, offering guidance on courtroom practice, legal writing, client relations and professional growth.

They also participate in public service, contribute to legal reforms, advance constitutionalism and engage in cases involving significant public interest.

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Notable Advocates Conferred Senior Counsel

On 3rd December 2025, the Committee on Senior Counsel considered applications pursuant to Rules 7 and 10 of the Advocates (Senior Counsel Conferment and Privileges) Rules and recommended several advocates for conferment.

Among the notable names are Rapinder Singh Sehmi, Paul Ndiritu Ndungu, Clement Muturi Kigano, Eliud Ng’ang’a Njoroge, Evans Thiga Gaturu, Ambrose Rachier Otieno, Moses Masika Wetang’ula, Alexandra Kontos, Nancy Wakarima Karigithu, and Prof. Patrick Otieno Lumumba.

Others include Dr. Kivutha Kibwana, Rubeena Dar, James Ochieng’ Oduol, Jane Njeri Onyango Njoki, Christine Agimba Anyango, and Hillary Chacha Odera, among others.

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Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. PHOTO/ Capital FM.