Frequently Asked Questions
About SICLE
What is SICLE?
SICLE is the Somali Institute for Continuing Legal Education. We provide training programs for legal professionals in Somalia, helping lawyers, judges, prosecutors, and others stay current with new legislation and develop their professional skills. Our programs are practical and focused on laws that practitioners actually work with.
Is SICLE part of the government?
No. SICLE is an independent, non-political organization. We work with government institutions, the bar association, universities, and civil society, but we are not controlled by or affiliated with any political party or faction. Our only agenda is strengthening the legal profession.
Do your programs cost money?
No. All SICLE programs are free. We believe continuing legal education should be accessible to every legal professional in Somalia, regardless of their financial situation. There are no fees for courses, membership, or materials.
Programs and Courses
What courses do you offer?
Our certificate programs cover recent Somali legislation including Company Law, Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing, Federal Elections Law, Data Protection, Petroleum Law, and others. We update our offerings as new laws are enacted. Check our Courses page for the current catalog and upcoming sessions.
Where are courses held?
Courses are held in person in Mogadishu. We teach over weekend sessions, typically three to four weekends totaling 25-30 hours of instruction. This format allows working professionals to attend without taking extended time away from their practices.
Are courses available online?
Our core certificate programs are taught in person because we believe face-to-face instruction and discussion produce better learning outcomes for legal education. We are exploring ways to extend our reach to professionals outside Mogadishu, but our current programs require in-person attendance.
How do I register for a course?
Check our Events page for upcoming course dates. You can register by contacting us at support@somali.institute or by filling out the membership form on our website. We will contact you with details about the next available session.
Membership
Who can become a member?
SICLE welcomes practicing lawyers, judges, magistrates, prosecutors, law professors, law students, paralegals, and other legal professionals. We also offer institutional membership for law firms, government legal departments, and organizations.
What do members receive?
Members can attend all courses and workshops at no cost. You receive certificates upon completing programs. You also gain access to our professional network, mentorship opportunities, updates on legal developments, and invitations to conferences and events. Practicing lawyers in good standing can vote in SICLE elections and hold leadership positions.
Pro Bono Legal Help
I need legal help but cannot afford a lawyer. Can SICLE help?
SICLE coordinates a network of lawyers who volunteer their time to help people who cannot afford legal representation. If you need assistance, contact us at info@somali.institute and explain your situation. We will try to connect you with a lawyer who can help. We cannot guarantee assistance in every case, but we do our best.
I am a lawyer and want to do pro bono work. How do I get involved?
Contact us at info@somali.institute. We can connect you with individuals and organizations that need legal assistance. Pro bono service is part of what it means to be a legal professional serving Somalia, and we recognize lawyers who contribute their time.
Getting Involved
How can I support SICLE?
The best way to support us is to participate. Attend courses, join the mentorship program, volunteer pro bono hours, or serve on one of our committees. If you have expertise to share, we welcome guest instructors. If your organization wants to partner with us, please reach out.
How do I contact SICLE?
Email us at contact@somali.institute or info@somali.institute. You can also visit our office in Mogadishu. Our hours are Sunday through Thursday, 8 AM to 4 PM.