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Utilities & Services

Legal Services (NALSA)

Free Legal Aid, Lok Adalat & Consumer Forum

Official Website 15100 (Legal Services Helpline) | 1800-11-4000 (Consumer)
Fees: Completely free for eligible beneficiaries
Processing: Legal aid assignment: 7–15 days. Lok Adalat: on scheduled date.

What is Legal Services (NALSA)?

NALSA (National Legal Services Authority) provides free legal aid under Legal Services Authorities Act 1987. Services include free lawyers, Lok Adalats, mediation, and para-legal volunteers for dispute resolution.

Who Can Apply

  • BPL families and low-income individuals
  • Women and children (free regardless of income)
  • Persons with disabilities
  • Victims of trafficking, SC/ST members

Documents Required

  • Aadhaar card
  • Income certificate for BPL eligibility
  • Case details or complaint documents

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Visit NALSA Portal

Go to nalsa.gov.in or contact nearest District Legal Services Authority (DLSA).

2

Apply for Legal Aid

Fill application at DLSA with income proof. Women and children get free aid automatically.

3

Lawyer Assigned

Panel lawyer assigned free of cost. Lawyer fees and court fees paid by Legal Services Authority.

4

Lok Adalat

For pre-litigation disputes (motor accident, property), approach Lok Adalat — free, final, no appeal.

5

Consumer Forum

For consumer complaints, file at District Consumer Forum (up to ₹50 lakh) at consumerhelpline.gov.in.

Go to Official Portal

Important Tips

  • Women get free legal aid regardless of income level
  • Lok Adalat settlement is final — think carefully before agreeing
  • Consumer forum complaint must be within 2 years of deficiency
  • Call 15100 for free legal advice over phone from NALSA

Frequently Asked Questions

QWho is eligible for free legal aid?

BPL families, women, children, SC/ST, persons with disabilities, trafficking victims, and those with income below ₹1 lakh/year.

QWhat is Lok Adalat?

Alternative dispute resolution forum under NALSA. Awards are final and binding. No court fees. Cannot be appealed.

QConsumer forum jurisdiction?

District: up to ₹50 lakh. State: ₹50 lakh–₹2 crore. National: above ₹2 crore.

Fees

Completely free for eligible beneficiaries

Helpline

15100 (Legal Services Helpline) | 1800-11-4000 (Consumer)

Processing: Legal aid assignment: 7–15 days. Lok Adalat: on scheduled date.

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