This archive report was first published on 26 June 2020.
On June 16, 2020, the Judiciary notified Kenyans that citizens in Nairobi would be required to file their court cases online from July 1, 2020, onwards.
This new system, known as the Electronic Filing System (e-filing), aims to streamline the court process and reduce congestion in Nairobi courts.
According to the Judiciary, parties will be required to register themselves through the e-filing court platform to log into the Judiciary System. These parties include:
- Law Society of Kenya (LSK) Members
- Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions
- Police
- Members of the Public
Once registered, users can upload documents, assess court fees, and submit files to the registry all online.
The Judiciary has stated that as long as a device can attach files and access the internet, users should be able to file cases online. This means that users can use their phone, tablet, laptop, or computer to file cases.
Chief Justice David Maraga has praised the use of technology in the dispensation of justice, stating that it has 'proved an invaluable channel' during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As of May 2020, the Judiciary had delivered approximately 7,000 judgments since the online court operations started due to the pandemic.
