Section 12 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987: Criteria for Receiving Legal Services

The Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 was enacted to provide free legal services to individuals who are unable to afford legal representation due to their socio-economic status.

Section 12 of the Act outlines the specific criteria for providing legal aid to various categories of people in need. The law ensures that justice is accessible to all, regardless of financial means, by offering legal assistance to vulnerable groups.

This article explores the criteria under Section 12 for receiving legal services and the role of Legal Light Consulting (LLC) in providing expert legal support to those eligible for legal aid.

Who is Eligible for Legal Services under Section 12?

Section 12 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 enumerates the categories of individuals who are entitled to free legal services.

These groups are considered vulnerable or disadvantaged, and the Act seeks to ensure that they are not deprived of legal representation due to their financial limitations.

1. Members of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST)

Individuals belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) are entitled to free legal services under this section.

These communities often face social and economic marginalization, making legal assistance crucial for accessing justice.

2. Victims of Trafficking or Begging

Persons who have been victims of human trafficking or are classified as beggars, as per Article 23 of the Constitution of India, are eligible for legal aid.

These individuals are often in dire situations, and legal aid can assist them in seeking justice and rehabilitation.

3. Women and Children

Women and children are provided legal assistance under Section 12 due to their heightened vulnerability in society. This includes protection from violence, abuse, exploitation, and issues related to guardianship, custody, and more.

4. Persons with Disabilities

As defined under the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995, people with disabilities are entitled to legal services. This ensures that individuals with physical or mental challenges can access the justice system, which might otherwise be inaccessible to them.

5. Persons Under Unforeseen Hardship

Individuals facing mass disasters, ethnic violence, caste atrocities, or other tragic circumstances such as floods, droughts, earthquakes, or industrial disasters are eligible for legal aid.

These situations can leave individuals in a state of desperation, and legal services can help them navigate the complexities of post-disaster recovery.

6. Industrial Workmen

Industrial workmen, typically workers in factories or industries who face exploitation, hazardous working conditions, or unfair treatment, are also entitled to legal assistance under Section 12. Legal aid can help these workers address grievances related to labor laws, compensation, and worker rights.

7. Persons in Custody

Individuals who are in custody, including those held in a protective home (under the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956), a juvenile home (under the Juvenile Justice Act, 1986), or psychiatric hospitals/nursing homes (under the Mental Health Act, 1987), are also eligible for free legal services. Access to legal support is crucial for individuals whose rights may be infringed while in custody.

8. Persons with an Annual Income Less Than ₹5,00,000

Persons whose annual income is less than ₹5,00,000 can also apply for legal aid. They are required to submit an affidavit stating their income to avail of this benefit. This provision ensures that those from lower income brackets have access to justice without being burdened by legal fees.

Role of Legal Light Consulting (LLC) in Providing Legal Aid

Legal Light Consulting (LLC) is a leading law firm that can assist eligible individuals in navigating the process of applying for legal aid under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.

LLC’s experienced lawyers specialize in various areas of law, including criminal law, civil law, family law, labor law, and more. By providing legal support to those who qualify under Section 12, LLC helps ensure that justice is not a privilege for the few but a right for all.

How LLC Can Help:

• Legal Guidance: LLC provides advice on eligibility and how to apply for legal aid under the Act.
• Affidavit Preparation: If an individual qualifies based on income, LLC helps in drafting and submitting the necessary affidavits.
• Representation: LLC offers legal representation in cases before courts, tribunals, and authorities, ensuring that clients receive a fair hearing.
• Case Management: From filing petitions to gathering evidence, LLC manages all aspects of legal proceedings for eligible clients.

Conclusion

The Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 is a crucial piece of legislation aimed at ensuring that no one is deprived of justice due to financial limitations. Section 12 of the Act identifies vulnerable groups and offers them the right to free legal services.

Whether you are a member of a marginalized community, a victim of a natural disaster, or in custody, legal aid can be a lifeline.

For those who qualify, Legal Light Consulting (LLC) is here to provide expert legal services and ensure that justice is accessible to everyone.

Contact LLC today for professional guidance and support in all your legal matters.