Complaint Process
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Lawyers Statutory Committee Complaint Process
1. Initial Screening
-The Committee conducts an interview with the Complainant to confirm that the matter falls within its jurisdiction under the Lawyers Act.
2. Issuance of Complaint Form
-A Complaint Form is provided to the Complainant.
-The Complainant completes and returns the form.
3. Registration of Complaint
-The Complainant pays the prescribed K200 processing fee.
-The Complaint is formally registered in the Committee’s records.
4. Notification to Lawyer
-The Committee writes to the lawyer, enclosing a copy of the Complaint.
-The lawyer is directed to file a written response within 21 days of receipt.
5. Committee Deliberation
-After the expiry of the 21-day response period, the Complaint is listed for deliberation.
-The Committee considers the Complaint, the lawyer’s response, and any supporting material.
6. Decision on Case to Answer
-The Committee determines whether the lawyer has a case to answer.
-If no case to answer, the Complaint is dismissed and both parties are notified.
-If case to answer, the matter is adjourned for inquiry.
7. Inquiry Preparation
-The lawyer is notified of the inquiry date.
-Both the lawyer and the Complainant may be directed to file further evidence before the inquiry.
8. Formal Inquiry
-The Committee conducts a formal inquiry into the Complaint.
-Witnesses may be called and evidence examined.
9. Decision and Penalty
-If the lawyer is found guilty of misconduct, the Committee imposes penalty under section 54 of the Lawyers Act.
-If not guilty, the Complaint is dismissed.
10. Notification and Closure
-The lawyer and the Complainant are formally notified of the Committee’s decision.
-The file is closed and archived.
