The District Legal Services Authority Mansa (DLSA Mansa) has announced an important job opportunity for experienced legal professionals seeking to serve in the criminal legal aid domain. The recruitment drive aims to fill a total of 7 contractual full-time positions under the Modified Legal Aid Defense Counsel System (LADCS) 2022, providing qualified advocates with a chance to work in a government-supported legal aid framework. This detailed job description covers all essential aspects such as eligibility criteria, application process, salary details, selection procedures, and important dates to assist interested candidates in preparing their applications efficiently.
Job Overview
The DLSA Mansa is inviting applications for the following posts:
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Engagement Type | Remuneration (Monthly Honorarium) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defense Counsel | 2 | Full Time, Contractual | Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 50,000 |
| Assistant Legal Aid Defense Counsel | 5 | Full Time, Contractual | Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 30,000 |
Candidates interested in applying should note that these positions are contractual and governed under the Modified LADCS Scheme 2022, with initial engagement for a period of two years, subject to annual renewal based on performance.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualifications and Experience
| Post | Qualifications & Experience |
|---|---|
| Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defense Counsel |
|
| Assistant Legal Aid Defense Counsel |
|
Additional Professional Requirements
– Must be enrolled advocates with the Bar Council of India and possess valid enrollment certificates.
– Candidates should not undertake any private practice or retainership during their contractual tenure.
– Engagement is intended for full-time legal aid work in criminal law only.
Nationality and Age Limit
– Applicants must qualify to practice law in India under the norms set by the Bar Council of India.
– There is no fixed age limit prescribed; candidates need to specify their age as on 01-11-2025 in their application.
Remuneration and Benefits
The honorarium, as specified in the Modified LADCS Scheme 2022, varies based on the post and the class of town:
| Post | Monthly Honorarium Range |
|---|---|
| Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defense Counsel | Rs. 30,000 – Rs. 50,000 |
| Assistant Legal Aid Defense Counsel | Rs. 20,000 – Rs. 30,000 |
Additional benefits include compliance with the Minimum Wages Act, and potential engagement for outreach in Talukas or outlying courts based on directions from the Punjab State Legal Services Authority.
Selection Process
The selection process for these positions will be conducted in a transparent and merit-based manner, involving:
- Public notification and advertisement.
- Scrutiny of applications based on eligibility and experience.
- Assessment of candidates through interviews or written tests as deemed appropriate.
- Final selection made by a committee headed by the Principal District & Sessions Judge, DLSA Mansa, and approved by the Executive Chairman of the State Legal Services Authority (SLSA).
Engagement will be contractual for initially two years, with the possibility of annual renewal, contingent upon performance evaluations conducted every six months.
Application Procedure
Step-by-Step Guide
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Download the Scheme of Engagement and Application Form: Access these documents from the official District & Sessions Judge, Mansa website:
https://mansa.dcourts.gov.in - Fill out the application form: Complete the form in English, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Details must include personal information, educational background, professional experience, case handling, and other relevant particulars.
- Attach requisite documents: Self-attested copies of educational certificates, Bar Council enrollment certificate, photo ID, address proof, and last three years’ Income Tax Returns (if available).
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Submission: Duly filled application forms and documents can be submitted:
- By hand at the Office of the District & Sessions Judge, Mansa, or
- Via speed post / registered post addressed to the Secretary, DLSA Mansa.
- Deadline: Ensure that all applications reach the office by 29th November 2025, 5:00 PM. Late submissions will not be considered.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Date for Application Submission | 29/11/2025, till 5:00 PM |
Terms & Conditions
– Engagement is purely contractual and cannot be converted into permanent employment.
– Legal Aid Defense Counsels must allocate full-time effort to legal aid f duties; private practice or retainers are not permitted.
– Termination of contract may occur at any time with or without prior notice for reasons including breach of duties, unethical conduct, misconduct, or unsatisfactory performance.
– Counsel must adhere to ethical standards outlined by the Bar Council of India and the scheme guidelines.
– Leave entitlements and other conditions will follow the provisions of the Modified LADCS Scheme 2022.
– The services may be extended to other courts or regions as directed by SLSA.
Important Links
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the last date to apply for these posts?
The last date for submission is 29th November 2025 up to 5:00 PM.
2. How many vacancies are available?
There are a total of 7 vacancies — 2 for Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defense Counsel and 5 for Assistant Legal Aid Defense Counsel.
3. What is the application mode?
Applications should be submitted offline, either by hand delivery or via speed/registered post to the office of DLSA Mansa.
4. What is the estimated salary or honorarium?
Honorarium ranges from Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 50,000 per month depending on the post. Exact figures are as outlined in the scheme, with additional allowances and benefits as prescribed.