The Judiciary is one of the three State organs established under Chapter 10, Article 159 of the Constitution of Kenya. It establishes the Judiciary as an independent custodian of justice in Kenya. Its primary role is to exercise judicial authority given to it, by the people of Kenya

Requirements

For appointment to the position of Judge of the Court of Appeal, the applicant must possess the following minimum qualifications set out in Article 166 (2) (a) (b)and (c) as read with Sub Article (4) (a) (b) and (c) of the Constitution, namely:

•  Hold a law degree from a recognized university, or be an advocate of the High Court of Kenya, or possess an equivalent qualification in a Common law jurisdiction;
•  Have at least ten (10) years’ experience as a superior court judge; or
•  Have at least ten (10) years’ experience as a distinguished academic, or legal practitioner or such experience in other relevant legal field; or
•  Have held the qualifications specified in paragraphs 2 (a) and (b) above for a period amounting, in the aggregate, to ten (10) years; and
•  Possess the experience required under paragraph 2 (a), (b) and (c) above as applicable, irrespective of whether that experience was gained in Kenya or in another Commonwealth CommonLaw jurisdiction.
•  Have a high moral character, integrity, and impartiality (meet the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution on Leadership and Integrity).

In addition, the applicants should demonstrate a high degree of professional competence, communication skills, fairness, good temperament, good judgment, wide breath of both legal and life experience and demonstrable commitment to public and community service.
The appointment shall be made in accordance with Article 166 (1)(b), (2) and (4) of the 2010 Constitution and Section 30, Part V and the First Schedule of the Judicial Service Act, No. 1 of 2011.

Duties and Responsibilities

A Judge of Appeal shall serve in the Court of Appeal of Kenya. The Functions and jurisdiction of the Court is provided for under Article 164(3) (a) and (b) of the Constitution, namely, to hear appeals from:

•  The High Court; and
•  Any other Court or Tribunal as prescribed by an Act of Parliament