How to book or get a case in Lok Adalat with a step by step explanation

Kokila Chokkanathan
⚖️ What is a Lok Adalat?

A Lok Adalat (People’s Court) is a forum in India that provides speedy and amicable resolution of disputes outside the formal judicial system. It is recognized under the Legal services Authorities Act, 1987, and is especially useful for pending civil cases, criminal compoundable cases, and disputes under specific statutes.

  • Decisions of Lok Adalats are binding and final, and are enforceable as a civil court decree.
  • There is no court fee for cases resolved in a Lok Adalat.
📝 Who Can File a Case in Lok Adalat?

Individuals or parties with pending civil cases

Matrimonial disputes

Property disputes

Financial matters (loan recovery, cheque bounce cases, etc.)

Individuals with pre‑litigation disputes

Disputes that have not yet been filed in court can also be taken to Lok Adalat for resolution.

Both parties must agree to settle through Lok Adalat for the matter to proceed.

📌 Steps to Book or File a Case in Lok Adalat

1. Check Eligibility

  • Ensure your case falls under civil or compoundable criminal matters.
  • Pre‑litigation disputes can also be considered.
2. Visit the Nearest Legal services Authority

  • Contact your State Legal services Authority (SLSA) or District Legal services Authority (DLSA).
  • Lok Adalats are usually held monthly or on special days announced by the authority.
3. application Form / Case Registration

  • Submit a written application or case request to the authority.
  • Include details of the parties, dispute summary, and documents.
4. Mutual Consent

  • Both parties must agree to participate in the Lok Adalat process.
  • If one party does not consent, the case cannot be taken up in Lok Adalat.
5. Schedule / Appointment

  • The Legal services Authority will schedule a date for the Lok Adalat hearing.
  • You may be required to appear in person or online, depending on the system in your state.
6. Resolution and Decree

  • The presiding authority (retired judges or legal officers) facilitates a mutual settlement.
  • If an agreement is reached, a Lok Adalat award is passed, which is final and binding.
💻 Online Filing / Appointments

Many states now provide online facilities to file pre‑litigation disputes in Lok Adalat:

Visit your State Legal services Authority website.

Fill out the online application form for pre‑litigation or pending cases.

Upload necessary documents.

Wait for confirmation of hearing date.

Some states also provide e‑Lok Adalat services, allowing virtual mediation.

🏆 Advantages of Lok Adalat Booking

  • Quick resolution: Cases are resolved faster than courts.
  • Cost-effective: No court fees; fees paid earlier are refunded.
  • Amicable settlement: Parties retain good relationships.
  • Binding and enforceable: Award is like a civil court decree.
📌 Key Points to Remember

  • Only civil or compoundable criminal matters can be taken to Lok Adalat.
  • Mutual consent of both parties is mandatory.
  • Documents supporting the dispute should be submitted in advance.
  • Legal assistance is available free of cost through the State Legal services Authority.
 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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