LEGAL AID
What is legal aid?
Legal aid is a system of providing free or low-cost legal assistance to individuals who are unable to afford the services of a private attorney. It aims to ensure that everyone has access to legal representation and advice to protect their rights and interests.
CMRSL legal aid program
In a progressive move that aims to ensure equality and justice for all citizens, CMRSL in 2020 introduced a groundbreaking legal aid clinic exclusively dedicated to providing support and guidance to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Queer persons. This was a move to consolidate the efforts of Counsel Michael Maundu, who has been providing expert legal aid to this marginalized community for over 15 years. By launching this legal aid clinic, CMRSL took a decisive step towards rectifying the injustices faced by LGBTIQ-identifying Kenyans such as discrimination, persecution, and human rights violations that have long plagued the LGBTIQ community in Kenya, denying them equal opportunities, safety, and dignity.
This initiative marked our significant milestone in efforts to recognize and protect the rights of this marginalized community. The establishment of this legal aid clinic specifically tailored for LGBTIQ people reflects the growing recognition of their unique legal challenges and the urgent need for targeted assistance.
The legal aid clinic project has since then evolved to provide legal services virtually to all LGBTIQ victims of Human Rights violation from the comfort of their location within the Republic. Over 2000 clients have been served in the legal aid clinics.
Pro-bono advocates
The clinic comprises a team of expert advocates who have been specially trained to understand the distinct legal needs and challenges faced by LGBTIQ individuals. They are equipped to provide comprehensive legal representation, advice, and support on matters ranging from employment discrimination, housing rights, healthcare access, and family issues. To join our team of volunteer advocates, click HERE
Services offered in CMRSL’s legal aid program
- Advice and consultations: Offering guidance and information on legal rights, obligations, and available options for LGBTIQ individuals facing legal issues.
- Mediation and dispute resolution: Assisting individuals in resolving disputes through negotiation or mediation rather than litigation.
- Legal representation: Providing legal representation and advocacy in court or administrative proceedings, such as discrimination cases or family law disputes.
- Document preparation: Assisting with legal document preparation, such as name change petitions, gender marker changes on identification documents, or adoption paperwork.
- Referrals and resource coordination: Connecting individuals with other relevant community resources, such as mental health services, support groups, or healthcare providers.
- Policy advocacy: Engaging in advocacy efforts to influence and change laws, regulations, and policies that affect the rights and well-being of LGBTIQ individuals.
The clinic’s services extend beyond legal representation, as it also aims to empower LGBTIQ individuals with knowledge about their rights, thus enabling them to navigate the legal system with confidence. By doing so, the clinic seeks to address the knowledge gap that perpetuates the discrimination and marginalization faced by the community.
How to access our legal aid services?
To access our legal aid clinics from any part in Kenya at any time and on any day , register HERE where you case will be up taken to our system. We will reach out within 24hours of registration and offer assistance. You can also reach out via our toll-free number +254800721696.
Together, let us celebrate the achievements of LGBTIQ legal aid clinics, amplify their message, and join hands in promoting equality, justice, and inclusion for all members of our diverse society.