Flamboyant lawyer and author Atieno Ogolla/COURTESY
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 practise of law that she harboured a great labour of love for writing.
Ogolla, a distinguished lawyer, author, and mentor, is set to unveil four transformative books on March 26, 2025, that aim to reshape legal education, practice, and spiritual growth for aspiring and practicing lawyers.
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 April 30 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. She introduces the reader to how the law relates to everyday life by discussing the structures of as well as the relationships between the people and the 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.
What is this book about?
This book explores how Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) has evolved in African justice systems, balancing traditional dispute resolution methods with modern legal frameworks.
Who should read this book?
Lawyers, law students, policymakers, judges, ADR practitioners, and anyone interested in African legal systems and dispute resolution.
ADR provides faster, culturally relevant, and cost-effective solutions to disputes, complementing formal court systems.
Does the book focus on any specific African countries?
Yes, it highlights key case studies from various East African nations while drawing lessons from other regions.
What are some key topics covered?
The book discusses traditional dispute resolution mechanisms, arbitration, mediation, the role of community elders, legal reforms, and the future of ADR in Africa.
What qualifies the author to write this book?
Julie Atieno Ogolla is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and the Founding Partner at Atieno Ogolla & Co. Advocates. She has extensive experience in Alternative Dispute Resolution, holding certifications in ADR and human rights. She was recognized as the Young ADR Practitioner of the Year at the Nairobi Legal Awards in 2022. Julie is also pursuing a Master of Laws (LL.M) at Liverpool John Moores University in the UK, with a focus on international corporate governance, international human rights law, and dispute resolution.
How does this book help legal professionals?
It provides insights into integrating ADR into practice, discusses legal frameworks, and highlights best practices for dispute resolution.
BEYOND THE BOOKS: THE LAW STUDENT’S GUIDE TO PASSING THE BAR EXAM
What is this book about?
This guide helps law students prepare for the bar exam with study strategies, exam techniques, time management tips, and practical insights from experienced professionals.
Law students preparing for the bar exam, especially those in Africa or commonwealth legal systems.
What makes this book different from other bar exam prep books?
It goes beyond theory to provide practical study plans, memory techniques, case analysis strategies, and mindset training for exam success.
How does the book help students manage exam stress?
It includes tips on mental preparation, handling pressure, avoiding burnout, and maintaining focus during bar prep.
Does this book include practice questions?
Yes, it contains sample questions, model answers, and guidance on answering bar exam essays and multiple-choice questions.
What qualifies the author to write this book?
Julie Atieno Ogolla is a lawyer, teacher of law, mentor, and private tutor. She successfully navigated the bar exam and has since helped numerous students prepare for theirs. With a strong academic background, including a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from Kabarak University and ongoing LL.M studies in the UK, she has firsthand experience with legal education systems and exam preparation strategies.
How can readers use this book effectively?
By following the structured study plans, applying exam techniques, and using the self-assessment checklists.
LAWYER IN PROGRESS: 365 DAYS TO SUCCESS (PLANNER FOR UNDERGRADUATE AND BAR EXAM STUDENTS)
A: It’s a structured planner designed to help law students and bar candidates stay organized, set goals, and track progress daily.
Who should use this planner?
Undergraduate law students and those preparing for the bar exam who want to stay disciplined and manage their workload effectively.
How is the planner structured?
It includes daily study schedules, goal-setting sections, case law notes, reflection prompts, and space for tracking legal skills development.
What makes this planner unique?
It’s tailored for law students, incorporating legal insights, motivational prompts, and tools for balancing study, internships, and self-care.
How can this planner improve time management?
By providing structured study blocks, prioritization techniques, and weekly progress reviews to ensure consistency and efficiency.
What qualifies the author to write this planner?
As a practicing lawyer, law teacher, and mentor, Julie Atieno Ogolla has guided many students through law school and bar exam preparation. Her personal experiences as a high-achieving law student and young professional provide practical, real-world insights into what it takes to succeed in the legal field.
How can readers use this planner effectively?
By setting clear goals, following the structured planning sections, tracking daily progress, and using the built-in self-reflection prompts to stay on course.
IN HIS COURT: A YEAR-LONG DEVOTION FOR FUTURE LAWYERS
What is this book about?
It’s a devotional designed to inspire and guide future lawyers by connecting biblical principles with legal practice and personal growth.
Who should read this book?
Law students, young lawyers, and anyone in the legal field looking for faith-based encouragement and wisdom.
How is the devotional structured?
It offers 365 daily devotionals, each with a Bible verse, reflection, prayer, and a legal practice insight or case reflection.
How does this book connect law and faith?
It explores themes like justice, integrity, wisdom, and perseverance from both a biblical and legal perspective.
Can this book be used for group study?
Yes, it’s perfect for law student fellowship groups, Christian legal associations, or personal spiritual growth.
What qualifies the author to write this devotional?
Julie Atieno Ogolla is a Christian lawyer, mentor, and musician with a deep commitment to integrating faith and legal practice.
She actively participates in church prayer sessions and devotions and has a structured spiritual routine that includes Bible study and mentorship. Her professional journey as an advocate and her spiritual walk shape the reflections in this devotional.
What’s the main takeaway from this devotional?
A: That being a lawyer is not just about the law—it’s about serving justice with integrity, guided by faith and wisdom.
