DLSA Sonepur Recruitment 2026: Notification, Eligibility, Salary, Last Date 21 Feb

Recruitment Overview

The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Sonepur, has released an official notification (No. 01/2026) for the recruitment of 03 posts including Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel, Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel, and Assistant Legal Aid Defence Counsel. This is a significant opportunity for legal professionals to work under the judiciary in Sonepur, Odisha.

This recruitment is for Direct Recruitment based on merit, professional experience, and a competitive selection process conducted by a Selection Committee chaired by the District & Sessions Judge. Candidates with an LLB/LLM degree and relevant criminal law practice experience are encouraged to apply offline before the deadline.

Key Highlights

Vacancy Details

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification & Experience

1. Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel:

• Education: LLB Degree.
• Experience: Practice in Criminal Law for at least 10 years. Must have handled at least 30 criminal trials in Sessions Courts.
• Skills: Leadership ability, excellent oral/written communication, thorough knowledge of criminal law and ethical duties.

2. Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel:

• Education: LLB Degree.
• Experience: Practice in Criminal Law for at least 7 years. Must have handled at least 20 criminal trials in Sessions Courts.
• Skills: Legal research skills, proficiency in IT, understanding of ethical duties.

3. Assistant Legal Aid Defence Counsel:

• Education: LLB Degree.
• Experience: Practice in Criminal Law (0 to 3 years).
• Skills: Excellent writing and research skills, high proficiency in IT.

Age Limit

While the specific age limit is not explicitly detailed in the extracted text, judicial service recruitments generally require candidates to be below 45 years of age. Candidates must refer to the official PDF notification for the exact age criteria and relaxation rules (SC/ST/OBC) as per Odisha Government norms.

Selection Process

The selection will be conducted through a fair, transparent, and competitive selection process. It is not based on a written exam but on merit derived from knowledge, skills, practice, and experience.

• Selection Committee: Chaired by the District & Sessions Judge (Chairman, DLSA).
• Method: Merit-based assessment of legal expertise and trial experience.
• Approval: Subject to final approval by the Executive Chairman, State Legal Services Authority (SLSA).

Application Fee

The official notification text did not specify an application fee. Candidates are advised to check the official PDF notification for any fee requirements or exemptions for reserved categories.

How to Apply (Offline Mode)

Interested candidates must apply through offline mode by sending their application via Speed Post or Registered Post. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the official website or the direct link provided below to download the Official Notification PDF and the Application Form.
2. Read the notification carefully to ensure eligibility.
3. Fill out the application form with accurate personal, educational, and professional details.
4. Attach self-attested copies of required documents: Educational Certificates, Experience Certificates, ID Proof, Photograph, and Signature.
5. Check the form thoroughly to avoid errors.
6. Send the sealed envelope containing the application to the address mentioned in the notification (likely the District Legal Services Authority, Sonepur office) via Speed Post/Registered Post.
7. Ensure the application reaches the office by 21-02-2026.
8. Retain a photocopy of the application and postal receipt for future reference.

Important Dates

Important Links

• Official Notification PDF & Application Form: Click here to Download
• Official Website: https://sonepur.dcourts.gov.in