Celebrated Family Lawyer Judy Thongori Passes Away in India

Judy Thongori, a pioneering figure in family law and an ardent advocate for rights, has passed away at a medical facility in India where she was receiving emergency treatment.

The Senior Counsel Bar (SCB) announced her death, revealing that Ms. Thongori succumbed to complications on Tuesday evening after being transferred there due to her severe illness. Dr. Fred Ojiambo, chair of the SCB, praises Ms. Thongori's remarkable career, which spanned over three decades, recognizing her as a dedicated family lawyer whose contributions significantly enriched the legal community.

“Sadly, she died yesterday (Tuesday, January 14) evening due to ensuing medical complications,” he said.

He emphasizes her role as a generous mentor at both the SCB and the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), remarking that her absence will be deeply felt within these organizations. Echoing this sentiment, LSK President Faith Odhiambo has acknowledged the substantial loss to the legal profession. She notes Ms. Thongori's recognition as Senior Counsel in 2020 and refers to her as a "professional North Star," emphasizing the enduring legacy of her contributions to family law and human rights advocacy.

“She was well known as a selfless and assiduous contributor to that strand of the law. Her willingness and selflessness to be of service to the Senior Counsel Bar, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) as a mentor to younger advocates, will be greatly missed. She was also a favourite speaker at the Annual Judge's’ colloquial,” he said.

Ms. Thongori began her illustrious career upon joining the Bar in 1988. She quickly established herself as a prominent family lawyer in Nairobi, representing high-profile clients in significant succession disputes. Her professional achievements include being the first woman inducted into the Law Society of Kenya's Roll of Honour in 2013. Additionally, her leadership abilities were recognized through her involvement in various judicial committees, such as the Mediation Accreditation Committee of the Judiciary and the Chief Justice's committee on the Family Division in the High Court.