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Legal Process & Help 3 min read

Broke and Arrested? You Can Still Get a Free Lawyer

This is one of the most under-used rights in the country — and it exists specifically for moments like this.

Article 39A of the Constitution and the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 guarantee free legal aid to anyone who can't afford a lawyer. This isn't charity — it's a constitutional entitlement.

Every district has a District Legal Services Authority (DLSA). Call the national helpline 15100 and they will connect you or your family to a legal aid lawyer, usually quickly, especially in an active custody situation.

You're eligible regardless of the nature of the case — legal aid isn't means-tested down to the last rupee, and students in particular are almost always well within the eligible category.

Art. 39A

State must ensure free legal aid so no one is denied justice due to poverty

Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987

Sets up the DLSA network that actually delivers this right

Quick Answers

Still wondering about...

Is 15100 available 24/7?
Legal aid helplines are generally staffed during standard hours, but in an active detention, calling immediately still gets the process moving fastest — don't wait till the next day.
Can You Refuse to Sign What the Police Hand You?How to Actually File a Complaint Against Police Misconduct

Heading to a protest? Know the full picture first.

This FAQ covers the specifics — our complete guide covers everything about police stops, arrest and detention in one place.

Open the Full Guide

Adhikar is an independent citizen-awareness platform, not a Government of India website and doesn't take a position on the NEET protests themselves — this is general information about rights every student already has, not legal advice for a specific situation. For that, contact a lawyer or the free legal aid helpline (15100).