Kenya Court of Appeal Filing Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide

Published: January 1, 2026, 3:10 p.m.

Understanding Court of Appeal Filing Requirements in Kenya

Filing documents with the Court of Appeal in Kenya requires strict adherence to formatting and procedural requirements. Failure to comply can result in document rejection or delays in your case.

Essential Document Requirements

All documents filed with the Court of Appeal must meet these requirements:

  • Line Numbering: Every tenth line must be numbered
  • Page Numbering: Sequential page numbers throughout
  • Format: PDF format required for e-filing
  • Font: Clear, readable font (typically Times New Roman, 12pt)
  • Margins: Standard margins (usually 1 inch)
  • Spacing: Double spacing for most documents

The Tenthlining Requirement

Tenthlining is mandatory for:

  • Memoranda of Appeal
  • Record of Appeal
  • Supplementary Records
  • Written Submissions
  • Affidavits

This requirement ensures that judges can easily reference specific sections during hearings and when writing judgments.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many appeals are delayed due to formatting errors:

  • Incorrect line numbering intervals
  • Missing page numbers
  • Inconsistent formatting
  • Documents exceeding file size limits
  • Non-compliant PDF formats

How Automation Helps

Automated tenthlining tools eliminate these common errors:

  • Automatic line numbering every tenth line
  • Consistent formatting throughout
  • Court-compliant PDF generation
  • File size optimization
  • Tamper-proof documents

E-Filing Process

The Court of Appeal uses an electronic filing system:

  1. Prepare your documents with proper formatting
  2. Ensure tenthlining is applied
  3. Convert to PDF format
  4. Upload through the e-filing portal
  5. Pay required fees
  6. Receive confirmation

Best Practices

To ensure smooth filing:

  • Use automated formatting tools
  • Double-check all requirements before filing
  • Keep backup copies of all documents
  • File well before deadlines
  • Verify document compliance

Conclusion

Understanding and complying with Court of Appeal filing requirements is essential for successful appeals in Kenya. By using automation tools like Tenthlining.com, legal professionals can ensure their documents meet all requirements efficiently and accurately.

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