Free Legal Aid for Women (NALSA)
Free legal advice and representation for all women
Government
Central Government
Who it’s for
All Women
Application mode
In-person at DLSA/SLSA or Online
Processing time
Legal aid applications are generally processed quickly; lawyer assignment can happen within days for straightforward requests.
Deadline / renewal
Available anytime — no application deadline.
What it provides
Free legal advice, representation and mediation support for women (regardless of income) as a mandatory category under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.
Benefits breakdown
Who’s eligible
All women, irrespective of income, are eligible for free legal aid under Section 12 of the Legal Services Authorities Act.
Documents required
- Identity proof (Aadhaar/any government ID)
- Case-related documents (if any legal proceeding is already underway)
How to apply
Online
- Visit the NALSA website (nalsa.gov.in) or the NyayaSetu / relevant e-services portal
- Fill in the legal aid application form with your details and nature of the legal issue
- Submit online; the concerned Legal Services Authority reviews and assigns a panel lawyer
In-person / offline
- Visit the nearest District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) office, usually located at the district court complex
- Fill the legal aid application form (Form available at the DLSA office)
- Submit with basic identity proof and details of your legal issue
- A panel lawyer is assigned to your case, free of cost
Helpline
15100 (NALSA Toll-Free Helpline)
FAQs
Do I need to be poor to get free legal aid?
No — for women, free legal aid is available regardless of income, unlike some other categories under the Legal Services Authorities Act which have an income ceiling.
Can I choose my own lawyer?
Typically a panel lawyer is assigned by the Legal Services Authority, though you can discuss preferences/concerns with the DLSA.
Last verified 31 August 2026