Legal pluralism and the Public Solicitor’s Office of Solomon Islands

ABSTRACTThe Solomon Islands Public Solicitor’s Office is established by the Constitution. The role of its officers is to provide legal advice and assistance not only in relation to state law, but also in respect of customary laws and institutions. In the course of providing legal aid, numerous dilemmas arise as to the best way in which to negotiate these complex issues, taking into account the prevailing culture. The 40thanniversary of the Journal of Legal Pluralism presents an ideal occasion to consider legal pluralism from the perspective of those whose daily work puts them at the forefront of the interface between the state and customary legal systems.