The Legal Aid Defense Counsel System (LADCS) in India is emerging as a critical initiative to enhance access to justice for the poor and marginalized. Launched by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), LADCS operationalises the constitutional rights to life and personal liberty (Article 21) and the state’s duty to provide free legal aid (Article 39A).

The system adopts a public defender-style approach, a shift from the previous model relying on part-time empaneled lawyers. LADCS ensures full-time, salaried legal professionals are deployed in every district under the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA).

These teams are typically structured with a Chief Legal Aid Defense Counsel, Deputy Chief, and Assistant Legal Aid Defense Counsels, aiming for consistency, accountability, and dedicated service.

As a Legal Aid Defense Counsel in Gautam Buddh Nagar, the author highlights the practical impact of LADCS in bridging the gap between vulnerable individuals and........

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