The Ghana Law Society has proposed that every lawyer in Ghana provides a minimum of 10 hours of free legal services each year. This move aims to improve access to justice for citizens who cannot afford professional legal assistance. President of the Society, Rockson-Nelson Etse Dafeamekpor, announced the proposal at the maiden Annual Bar Conference of the GLS on September 30, 2026.
According to Dafeamekpor, many simple disputes escalate because ordinary citizens lack access to lawyers or cannot afford their services. Disputes involving tenancy, property, and basic agreements are examples that could be resolved earlier with proper legal advice. The proposed mandatory pro bono requirement would make lawyers and law firms dedicate part of their time to citizens unable to pay for legal representation.
The proposal is part of a wider package of reforms to extend legal services beyond Ghana’s major cities. Dafeamekpor stated that the profession must rethink its relationship with the public for legal reform to have practical meaning in the lives of ordinary Ghanaians. This move seeks to bridge the gap in access to justice, especially in rural areas.
The Ghana Law Society believes that this proposal will encourage lawyers to contribute to the well-being of society. By providing free legal services, lawyers can help resolve disputes and educate citizens about their rights. This initiative is expected to foster a sense of social responsibility among lawyers.
Dafeamekpor emphasized that the proposed reform is crucial for improving access to justice in Ghana. He argued that the current system often leaves ordinary citizens at a disadvantage. The mandatory pro bono service aims to address this issue by making legal services more accessible.
The Annual Bar Conference of the GLS is a significant event for Ghana's legal community. The maiden conference provided a platform for Dafeamekpor to share the Society's vision for the future of legal services in Ghana. The proposal has generated interest and discussion among lawyers and stakeholders.
The implementation of the proposed mandatory pro bono service will depend on various factors, including feedback from lawyers and the public. If adopted, the new requirement will likely have a positive impact on access to justice in Ghana. The Ghana Law Society will continue to engage with stakeholders to refine the proposal and ensure its successful implementation.
Key points
- The Ghana Law Society proposes 10 hours of free legal services by lawyers yearly.
- The proposal aims to improve access to justice for citizens who cannot afford professional legal assistance.
- The mandatory pro bono service will help bridge the gap in access to justice, especially in rural areas.
