Flamboyant lawyer Atieno Ogolla is about to launch four books in the month of April following extensive research on various aspects of law. At 28, finding purpose in mentoring and writing fires her purpose of dispensing knowledge.
By Barack Oduor
Flamboyant lawyer Atieno Ogolla had thought that lawyering was about long hours in court arguing about how this crime was committed or not committed. It is after her sojourn into the practice of law that she harboured a great labour of love for writing.
Atieno’s pursuit for Alternative Dispute Resolution; also referred to as ADR, gave her excitement. She believed that protracted cases in courts could be resolved by the differing parties settling matters out of court.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is the mechanism of resolving disputes in any other form other than through the court process. Alternative justice processes include mediation, conciliation, negotiation, arbitration and traditional dispute resolution mechanisms.
She is about to launch four books in the month of April following extensive research on various aspects of law. At 28, finding purpose in mentoring and writing fires her purpose of dispensing knowledge.
She is set to unveil four transformative books on 30, April that aim to reshape legal education, practice, and spiritual growth for aspiring and practicing lawyers. Each of her books provides a unique perspective on legal success, professional development, and the role of faith in the legal profession.
In her first book titled, “From Tradition to Modernity: The Role of ADR in African Justice Systems,” she deeply delves into the evolving landscape of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in Africa, exploring how traditional mechanisms of conflict resolution intersect with contemporary legal frameworks.
Atieno provides a thought-provoking analysis of ADR’s role in enhancing access to justice, particularly in a region where formal legal systems often face challenges of accessibility and efficiency. The idea of ADR first excited her when she thought of how it easily helped solve cases that could if left to courts drag for years.
“My book on ADR implores on the importance of using it as an alternative way of solving disputes in our societies. If wholly embraced, ADR can be used ensuring that there is no backlog of cases in our courts across the country,” says Atieno.
Atieno’s second book, “Beyond the Books: The Law Student’s Guide to Passing the Bar Exam” is a must-read for any law student preparing for the bar exam, this book offers practical strategies beyond rote memorization.
Drawing from her experience as a legal educator and mentor, Atieno provides actionable study techniques, time management strategies, and exam-day readiness tips designed to help students excel and build confidence in their legal knowledge.
The third publication, “Lawyer in Progress: 365 Days to Success – Planner for Undergraduate and Bar Exam Students,” is more of an innovative planner for law students set to sit bar exams.
Failing in bar exams has recently grown into a national concern. Last year, Attorney General Dorcas Oduor was moved by concerns raised by law students and stakeholders over mass failures in law exams offered by the Kenya School of Law (KSL) to form a body to investigate the failure.
Dorcas’ move followed a consultative meeting she had convened and was attended by the President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Chairpersons of the KSL, Council for Legal Education (CLE), the Kenya Law Reform Commission (KLRC) as well as their Chief Executive Officers.
According to Atieno, this book is more than just an organisation – it is a structured guide designed to help law students and bar candidates set goals, track progress, and maintain focus throughout their legal journey. With daily prompts, study schedules, and motivational insights, it serves as a personal accountability tool to enhance productivity and success.
In her final book titled, “In His Court: A Year-Long Devotion for Future Lawyers,” Atieno is blending faith with the practice of law. This devotional provides daily reflections, scripture-based encouragement, and insights on navigating the legal profession with integrity and purpose. It is a spiritual companion for law students and young lawyers who seek to align their professional aspirations with their faith.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Atieno Ogolla shared, “These books are the culmination of my passion for law, education, and mentorship. Each of them addresses a critical gap in legal education and practice, offering students and practitioners the tools they need to succeed academically, professionally, and spiritually.”
Atieno’s books can also introduce readers to the idea of and background to law. Sheintroduces the reader to how the law relates to everyday life by discussing the structures of as well as relationship between the people and Constitution, Parliament, the central government and the county governments.
How are courts structured and how do they work? This is one area of the law in Kenya that is least understood. Atieno outlines how courts are constituted, when they sit, what matters can be brought before a magistrate’s court, the high court, the court of appeal all the way to the supreme court.
The launch of the books will entail an engaging lineup of discussions, book signings, and networking opportunities for law students, professionals, and legal educators.
