Archive · 25 May 2025
Legal Body: Mumbai Family Courts haven't referred child cases.
In Mumbai, the legal system is trying to help kids in family disputes, especially when parents are fighting over custody.
A group called MSLSA said that courts haven't asked for their help in any cases yet.
A lawyer wants the courts to have special lawyers for these kids to help them.
The government has rules to help, but the MSLSA says they haven't been used yet by the courts.
MSLSA stated that family courts have not referred any child custody cases for legal assistance.
The report was in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking legal aid for children.
The petitioner, Shraddha Dalvi, advocated for independent lawyers for children in custody battles.
The National Legal Services Authority's legal services scheme for children began in September 2024.
The Women and Child Development Department referred to existing guidelines under the Pocso Act.
- Who
- Maharashtra State Legal Services Authority (MSLSA) and family courts.
- What
- Maharashtra State Legal Services Authority (MSLSA) reported that family courts have not referred a single case for providing legal services to children.
- When
- The report was filed in response to a PIL in March and April 2024.
- Where
- Mumbai, India
- Why
- To provide legal assistance to children in custody battles and related litigation.
- Court
- Bombay High Court
- Main Entity
- Maharashtra State Legal Services Authority (MSLSA)
- Involved Courts
- Family courts
- Case Types
- Custody, guardianship, maintenance cases
- Petitioner
- Petitioner: Shraddha Dalvi
- Focus
- Children in matrimonial proceedings
- Legal Framework
- Legal Services Authorities Act
