“Law is equal for all” tabhi meaningful hai jab justice tak pahunch bhi sab ke liye possible ho – chahe unke paas paisa ho ya nahi. Isi liye many constitutions and statutes free legal aid ko fundamental guarantee ke sath link karte hain.
Free legal aid ka matlab hai ki economically weaker, vulnerable, ya specially protected groups ko State ke kharche pe lawyers, advice, and representation mile. Ye criminal cases tak limited nahi – civil disputes, family matters, labour issues, and sometimes administrative proceedings tak extend ho sakta hai.
Access to justice broader concept hai:
- Reasonable court fees,
- Geographically reachable courts and tribunals,
- Clear procedures and language,
- Legal literacy programmes,
- Time-bound disposal efforts.
Courts ne kai baar hold kiya hai ki bina effective legal representation ke fair trial possible nahi. Isi liye serious criminal cases me, agar accused afford nahi kar sakta, to duty counsel ya legal aid lawyer provide karna State ki responsibility banti hai.
Ground reality uneven hai – quality, availability, and awareness sab jagah same nahi. Lekin principle clear hai: justice sirf rich ka luxury product nahi ho sakta; system ko consciously inclusion ke side move karna hi padega.