Feedback

Tele-Law Service: The Role of Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs)

The Crucial Role of Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs) in Tele-Law Service

The Tele-Law service, an initiative by the Ministry of Law and Justice, aims to provide accessible legal advice to individuals in rural and remote areas. Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs) play a pivotal role in the successful implementation of this service. Deployed by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) or CSC e-Governance Services India Ltd, PLVs act as vital facilitators, ensuring that legal support reaches those who need it most. Here’s an in-depth look at who PLVs are and their responsibilities in the Tele-Law service.

Who is a Para Legal Volunteer (PLV)?

A Para Legal Volunteer (PLV) is an individual who is not a lawyer but possesses a basic understanding and knowledge of legal processes and laws. PLVs are deployed by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) or CSC e-Governance Services India Ltd to facilitate the Tele-Law service. They are attached to selected Common Service Centres (CSCs) in villages, where they assist in delivering legal aid to the community.

Responsibilities of a PLV in Tele-Law Service

PLVs perform a variety of essential functions to ensure the smooth operation of the Tele-Law service. Their responsibilities include:

Facilitating Legal Consultations:

• PLVs assist in arranging video conferencing or telephone consultations between litigants and Panel Lawyers. They ensure that the technological setup at the CSC is ready for these consultations.

Case Registration:

• PLVs help litigants register their cases with the Tele-Law service. They gather necessary information, complete required forms, and ensure that all details are accurately recorded.

Providing Legal Information:

• While not qualified lawyers, PLVs have a basic understanding of legal processes and laws. They provide preliminary legal information and guidance to litigants, helping them understand their rights and the legal procedures involved.

Outreach and Awareness:

• PLVs conduct outreach activities to raise awareness about the Tele-Law service within the community. They educate local residents about the availability of legal aid and encourage them to seek assistance when needed.

Assisting Vulnerable Groups:

• PLVs pay special attention to marginalized and disadvantaged groups, ensuring that they have access to legal support. This includes women, children, SC/ST individuals, victims of trafficking, and others eligible for free legal aid under Section 12 of the Legal Services Authorities (LSA) Act, 1987.

Maintaining Confidentiality:

• PLVs are responsible for ensuring that all personal and case details of the litigants are kept confidential. They handle sensitive information with care and ensure that it is securely stored.

Feedback Collection:

• After consultations, PLVs collect feedback from litigants about their experience with the Tele-Law service. This feedback is crucial for improving the service and addressing any issues faced by the users.

Importance of PLVs in Rural and Remote Areas

PLVs are instrumental in extending the reach of the Tele-Law service to rural and remote areas. Here’s why their role is so important:

Local Presence:

• As members of the local community, PLVs are well-positioned to understand and address the legal needs of their neighbors. Their presence at CSCs makes legal support more accessible to those in remote locations.

Building Trust:

• PLVs, being part of the community, can build trust with local residents, encouraging them to seek legal help without fear or hesitation.

Empowering Communities: