A bold new chapter in Kenyan legal scholarship has been written—literally.
Advocate and legal educator Julie Atieno Ogolla has released a powerful collection of four books that are being praised as catalysts for a modern legal renaissance.
Under the theme Law, Time, and Justice, Atieno’s works are being recognized for their fresh, practical perspectives on legal education, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), and professional growth—making waves across courtrooms, lecture halls, and boardrooms.
The official launch, held in Nairobi on April 30, 2025, drew some of the country’s most respected legal minds, who commended the books for filling critical gaps in Kenya’s legal practice and training.
Dr. Muthomi Thiankolu, a prominent legal practitioner and scholar, lauded two of the titles—“Lawyer in Progress: 365 Days to Success – Planner for Undergraduate and Bar Exam Students” and “Beyond the Books: The Law Student’s Guide to Passing the Bar Exam”—as essential resources for law students and early-career advocates.
“The reason I recommend these two books is because they teach how to efficiently manage our time,” Dr. Muthomi said. “When lawyers learn to master time, they unlock better service, success, and satisfaction for their clients and themselves.”
He further warned that the country’s case backlog can often be traced to poor time management within the legal profession—a problem these books aim to help solve.
Faith Odhiambo, President of the Law Society of Kenya, passionately endorsed Atieno’s work on ADR titled “From Tradition to Modernity: The Role of ADR in African Justice Systems.”
“This book is humbling and deeply insightful. It gives practical solutions that we can adopt to enhance our justice systems,” Ms. Odhiambo remarked. “ADR is not only gaining traction locally, but globally. Nairobi must rise to become a hub of arbitration and mediation in Africa.”
Former Governor and Law Professor Kivutha Kibwana, who served as the Guest of Honour, said Atieno’s books are a timely and critical contribution to the expansion of legal education across institutions.
“These books need to be made available in all law schools and legal chambers. They are practical, insightful, and will help shape better lawyers and more efficient legal systems,” Prof. Kibwana said.
Also in attendance was Judge Asenath Ongeri, celebrated for her memoir “The Making of a Judge,” who echoed the sentiment that Atieno’s writings come at a crucial time when the country is seeking more practical legal solutions.
Atieno’s fourth book, “The Godly Lawyer: A Devotional for the Christian Legal Practitioner,” explores the intersection of faith and justice, and has been praised for its role in encouraging lawyers to ground their practice in ethical and spiritual principles.
“These books are the culmination of my passion for law, education, and mentorship,” Atieno said during her speech. “Each one addresses a critical gap in legal education and practice, offering students and practitioners the tools they need to succeed academically, professionally, and spiritually.”
ADR—Alternative Dispute Resolution—is a recurring theme across her writings.
She believes that promoting ADR in Kenya is not just an academic exercise, but a national imperative.
“My book on ADR emphasizes its power to resolve disputes quickly and effectively,” said Atieno. “If fully embraced, ADR can significantly reduce the case backlog and restore confidence in our justice systems.”
Atieno’s legal journey, marked by dedication to reform, innovation, and mentorship, is reflected deeply in her work.
Her books are already being integrated into training programs and recommended by legal professionals for anyone serious about reshaping the future of law in Kenya.
As legal minds continue to grapple with the complexities of modern justice, Julie Atieno’s books offer a timely compass—pointing toward a profession that is more efficient, compassionate, and accessible.
