The Legal Practitioners’ Remuneration (Enforcement) Order is, in my view, one of the most important interventions in our profession in recent years. It is not merely about fees; it is about dignity, sustainability, and fairness in legal practice. Yet, as with many reforms in Nigeria, its effectiveness will depend less on the letter of the law and more on our collective will to make it work.
For me, the first step lies with our branches. The Order cannot be enforced by circulars alone. Lawyers (young and old) – need structured training to understand the provisions, the schedules, and how these translate into real-life practice. If necessary, these explanations should even be delivered in multiple languages so that no one is excluded.
But understanding is only one side of the coin. We must also give lawyers the practical tools to apply the Order. A simple “pocket guide” to the schedules, broken down by practice areas, could go a long way in ensuring lawyers have quick and easy reference points for compliance.
Enforcement itself must not be left to goodwill. Without proper oversight, undercutting and resistance will persist. Dedicated committees at branch and national levels should be empowered to monitor compliance, receive reports, and recommend swift disciplinary action. Without accountability, the Order risks being more aspirational than practical.
We must also recognise that remuneration intersects with national policy. If properly aligned with institutions like the Land registeries , Corporate Affairs Commission Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and other government agencies, the Order could both formalize lawyers’ earnings and expand government revenue. Done right, compliance becomes a win-win: the profession gains dignity, and the state gains revenue.
Finally, we cannot ignore the public. Clients need to understand that fair remuneration is not exploitation but an investment in quality service. This requires consistent public enlightenment campaigns to reshape perceptions about the value of legal work.
The Remuneration Order is a milestone, but its promise will only be realised if we educate, enforce, and sensitize – together. The responsibility rests on all of us to ensure that this reform moves from paper to practice.
Prof. Foluke Dada-Lawanson
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