NALSA eligibility checker
Check Eligibility for Free Legal Aid (NALSA)
Find out whether you may qualify for Free Legal Aid under Section 12 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. This checker gives general guidance before you approach the competent Legal Services Authority.
Who Can Apply?
Know whether you qualify for Free Legal Aid under the Legal Services Authorities Act.
Check EligibilityHow To Apply
Learn the complete process for applying for Free Legal Aid.
View ProcessDocuments Required
See the documents generally required while applying.
View DocumentsSimple guide
What is Free Legal Aid?
Free legal aid is government-supported legal help for people who may otherwise be unable to access justice. It can include legal advice, help with documents, representation by an advocate, Lok Adalat support, and guidance for civil or criminal proceedings.
NALSA coordinates legal services through State, District and Taluk Legal Services institutions. Section 12 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 lists the main categories of people who can seek legal services. The idea is simple: justice should not depend only on a person’s money, status, gender, age or vulnerability.
Interactive checker
Check your eligibility
Eligible categories
Who is eligible?
Women are listed as an eligible category under Section 12.
Children below 18 may seek free legal aid.
Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe members are covered.
Disabled persons may qualify under the statutory categories.
Industrial workmen can apply for eligible matters.
Prisoners and persons in specified custody are covered.
Victims of human trafficking or forced labour are included.
Flood, drought, earthquake and industrial disaster victims may qualify.
Mass violence, caste atrocity and ethnic violence victims are covered.
Persons below state income limits may qualify.
NALSA lists Rs. 5 lakh for Supreme Court matters.
Eligibility may depend on state-specific rules and income limits.
Income limits
State-wise income limits
Income limits may change over time. Verify the latest limits with the concerned State Legal Services Authority before applying.
| State | Annual Income Limit | Court |
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Process
How to apply
Review Section 12 categories and income limits.
Keep ID proof, address proof, case papers and certificates ready.
Approach your nearest legal services office or official online portal.
Submit the application in writing, online, by post, or orally with assistance.
The authority verifies eligibility and genuineness of the matter.
If approved, a panel lawyer or legal aid support may be assigned.
Documents
Documents required
Aadhaar, voter ID, passport or other accepted ID.
Needed where eligibility is based on income.
Any accepted residential proof.
FIR, notices, court papers, orders or correspondence.
An affidavit may be accepted unless questioned by the authority.
Caste, disability or other category proof if applicable.
Benefits
Benefits of free legal aid
Panel advocate support where approved.
Help before courts, tribunals or authorities.
Understand your rights and remedies.
Drafting support where applicable.
Settlement support for suitable disputes.
Amicable resolution for eligible matters.
Information about rights and schemes.
Legal aid through statutory authorities.
Support for vulnerable and low-income people.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Disclaimer
Important notice
This eligibility checker is designed to provide general guidance based on publicly available eligibility criteria under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. Final eligibility is determined by the concerned Legal Services Authority after reviewing the applicant's case and supporting documents.
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