The Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987

 
The Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 (LSAA) is a landmark piece of legislation in India that provides for the establishment of a nationwide network of legal services authorities to provide free and competent legal services to the weaker sections of society. The LSAA also establishes Lok Adalats, which are alternative dispute resolution (ADR) forums for the speedy and amicable settlement of disputes.

 The LSAA is based on the principle of equal access to justice, regardless of a person's economic or social status. The Act defines "weaker sections" to include persons belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, women, children, persons with disabilities, and other disadvantaged groups.

 The LSAA establishes a three-tier structure of legal services authorities:

 National Legal Services Authority (NALSA): NALSA is the apex body under the LSAA and is responsible for coordinating and monitoring the implementation of the Act across the country.

State Legal Services Authorities (SLSAs): SLSAs are established in each state and union territory to provide legal services to the weaker sections in their respective jurisdictions.

District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs): DLSAs are established in each district to provide legal services at the grassroots level.

The LSAA provides for a wide range of legal services to be made available to the weaker sections, including:

• Women
• Children
• Members of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes
• Victims of trafficking in persons and other vulnerable persons
• Persons with disabilities
• Persons living in poverty
• Other persons who are unable to afford legal services

To obtain legal aid services under the Act, eligible individuals must apply to the legal services authority in their area. The authority will then assess the individual's eligibility and provide them with appropriate services.

•  Legal advice and consultation
• Representation in court
• Drafting of legal documents
• Assistance in filing and pursuing legal cases
• Legal aid camps and outreach programs

The LSAA also establishes Lok Adalats, which are ADR forums for the speedy and amicable settlement of disputes. Lok Adalats have jurisdiction to settle a wide range of disputes, including civil, criminal, and matrimonial disputes. Lok Adalat awards are binding on both parties and are final and conclusive.

 The LSAA has played a significant role in providing access to justice to the weaker sections of society. Over the years, the LSAA and its network of legal services authorities have provided legal assistance to millions of people across the country.

 Here are some of the key benefits of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987:

1.  It provides free and competent legal services to the weaker sections of society.
2. It helps to ensure equal access to justice for all, regardless of a person's economic or social status.
3. It promotes the use of ADR mechanisms, such as Lok Adalats, for the speedy and amicable settlement of disputes.
4. It has helped to raise awareness of legal rights and obligations among the weaker sections of society.

The Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 is a progressive piece of legislation that has made a significant contribution to the development of the legal system in India.