RCK gives legal advice and general information to asylum seekers and refugees concerning the policies of the Government of Kenya and UNHCR. In addition, RCK represents refugees and asylum seekers in Kenyan courts on matters related to their stay in Kenya. We only defend refugees who have cases regarding their asylum status. Criminal cases can only be taken up where justice is deemed to have been miscarried on the basis of the accused's asylum status. Otherwise refugees and asylum seekers are supposed to face the Kenyan legal system. We however watch briefs in such cases whenever we receive a report that a refugee or an asylum seeker has been accused before a court of law, to ensure that justice is not miscarried. In civil cases, we work closely with a few law irms who accept our referrals in very limited instances. All RCK legal aid is offered free of charge to refugees and asylum seekers.

RCK is not mandated to provide identification documents to refugees and can only issue introductory letters to particular refugees and asylum seekers with compelling cases who are awaiting decisions on their applications with UNHCR or the Government. Such letters are not issued to persons with UNHCR protection letters (mandates) or alien certificates indicating their immigration status. Before any introductory letter is issued, need for the document is assessed on an individual basis. The introductory documents for identification purposes are meant to be interim documents, pending the issue of Protection Certificates or 'Mandates' by UNHCR. RCK also issues specific letters of introduction to refugees and asylum seekers for cases that require a referral to be made.

Unfortunately, RCK does not have the capacity to resolve security problems. But these are always assessed and referred to the UNHCR for further action. At times some cases are also referred to partners for consideration for durable solutions but this neither offers an immediate solution nor guarantees a durable solution.

RCK offers very limited social assistance (food, shelter, transport & medical) on an emergency basis only. This is done only as a short term intervention to alleviate suffering as other solutions are sought.