Legal Service Authority Act, 1987 - Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Welcome to the session on the Legal Service Authority Act, 1987.
• Aimed at candidates preparing for law entrance exams, especially for 2024.
• Emphasis on learning and understanding the details of the Act.

Key Definitions

• Legal: Related to law.
• Service: Professional assistance (e.g., teacher providing education).
• Authority: A recognized body that provides legal services.

NALSA (National Legal Service Authority)

• Established: 1995 under the Legal Service Authority Act.
• Purpose:
  • Monitor and review the effectiveness of legal aid programs.
  • Develop rules and principles for providing legal services.
  • Promote legal awareness and assistance.

Constitutional Provisions

• Article 39A:

  • Ensures free legal aid as part of the Directive Principles of State Policy.
  • Mandates that the state should provide legal services to promote justice.
  • Aims to prevent denial of justice due to economic or physical disabilities.

• Related Articles:

  • Article 14: Right to equality.
  • Article 22.1: Protection against arbitrary arrest.

Objectives of the Legal Service Authority Act

• Provide free legal aid and advice.
• Enhance legal awareness among citizens.
• Organize Lok Adalat for resolving disputes efficiently.

Lok Adalat (People's Court)

• Concept: A quasi-court that settles disputes through alternative dispute resolution methods.
• Difference from regular courts:
  • Quicker and less formal dispute resolution.
  • No need for lengthy court procedures.
  • Involves sitting or retired judicial officers, lawyers, and social workers.

Levels of Legal Services

• National Level: Monitors legal services across the country.
• State Level: Ensures legal services are provided in each state.
• District Level: Addresses legal needs at the district and Taluk levels.
• High Court & Supreme Court Legal Services Committees: Oversee legal aid at the highest levels of judiciary.

Eligibility for Legal Aid

• People with disabilities.
• Members of SC/ST communities.
• Industrial workmen.
• Victims of natural disasters, caste or ethnic violence.
• Women and children in need.
• Individuals with annual income less than 1 lakh.

Conclusion

• The Act is essential for ensuring access to justice for all, particularly marginalized communities.
• Understanding this Act is crucial for students preparing for law entrance exams.
• Reminder to participate in upcoming sessions and to utilize resources for further learning.