1. Introduction
Welcome to the User Manual for the Legal Services System, designed to be your comprehensive guide through the usage and navigation of the system. This manual is intended for all users using the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) module in the Legal Services System, and individuals seeking legal assistance. It includes detailed explanations on how to navigate the system, instructions on how to access various features, and visual aids such as screenshots to enhance understanding.
The Legal Services System is a sophisticated platform aimed at enhancing the provision of legal aid services. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, including mobile apps, USSD, SMS, and a web portal, the system ensures that users can access legal assistance through their preferred communication channels, no matter where they are located in Tanzania. This manual will guide you through everything from the initial setup and daily operations to troubleshooting common issues and utilizing advanced features.
2. System Requirements
To ensure a smooth and efficient experience with the Legal Services System, users must meet certain hardware and software requirements. These requirements are designed to optimize the system’s functionality and ensure compatibility across different devices and platforms.
2.1 Hardware Requirements
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Computer/Device: A modern computer or mobile device capable of running the latest web browsers or mobile operating systems.
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Processor: Minimum of Intel i3 or equivalent for desktops and laptops. Mobile devices should have a comparable modern processor capable of handling multitasking.
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RAM: At least 4GB for desktops and laptops to ensure smooth operation. Mobile devices should have a minimum of 2GB RAM.
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Storage: A minimum of 100MB of free disk space for data caching and logs.
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Internet Connection: A stable broadband connection is recommended for uninterrupted access to online features and services.
2.2 Software Requirements
Operating System:
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Desktops/Laptops: Windows 10 or newer, macOS Sierra (10.12) or newer, any other operating system that is capable of installing the latest web browsers.
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Mobile Devices: Android 8.0 (Oreo) or newer, iOS 11 or newer.
Web Browser:
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Google Chrome (latest version), Mozilla Firefox (latest version), Safari (latest version), or Microsoft Edge (latest version).
Additional Software:
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PDF reader and Spreadsheet software for report documents viewing and printing.
Necessary plugins or software updates as prompted by the system for specific functionalities.
2.3 Supported Technologies
SMS Notifications: Mobile device must support SMS features for receiving notifications and communications.
AI Technology: To ensure a smooth running of the chatbot and more efficiency, in replying to citizens queries.
2.4 Network Requirements
Bandwidth: A minimum of 2Mbps download and upload speeds are recommended to effectively handle data transfers and uploads.
Latency: Lower latency is recommended for real-time data processing and communications.
3. HowTo - Application
This section of the manual is designed to help new users set up and start using the Legal Services System efficiently. Follow these steps to begin your journey with the platform.
3.1 Accessing the System - Web Portal Users
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Open your preferred web browser: The system is compatible with major browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge.
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Visit the official website: https://tlegalaid.sheria.go.tz
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Click on “Login” link at the top of the page and use your credentials.
3.2 How to register and apply for an ADR certificate (ADR Practitioner)
1. Open the LSS portal at https://tlegalaid.sheria.go.tz/ and click on Register button on the Alternative Dispute Resolution Section.
2. Enter a valid phone number and email where your password will be sent. This ensures that the system is accessed by genuine users. The password received will be used to login to the system for the first time. Click on Register and check your phone or email address.
3. Use the received password in your email address or phone number’s SMS and use it to log in to the system. You are required to verify that you are not an automated bot by checking the verification CAPTCHA and click on Login.
4. Once you get access to the system, you are required to select whether you are an Individual or an Organization. Fill in the form accordingly with accurate details, since they will be reviewed and verified before being awarded a certificate. Each type of registration has its own form. Click on Save once everything is filled in. Be sure to choose the correct type of account type between Individual and Organization

5. Once you enter your TIN number, click on the Verify button next to it to verify the entered details. Click on Save to store your details.
6. Once the form has been submitted, an application is automatically created for you. Click on the proceed button to start filling in the application details for submission to the authorities.
7. Select the services that you wish to offer as an ADR and click Next. Please note that each service will be billed and verified individually.
8. Upload all the requested attachments and click Next. The requested documents for upload will be determined by the services you select in the previous stage.
9. Once the file has been uploaded, an eye icon will appear next to the document name. You can click on it to preview the uploaded document for self verification before submitting.
10. Use the Generate button to process the services selected and generate a Control Number from the government GePG. You will get
11. Confirm that the services selected are correct and check the box to accept the terms and conditions. Once you confirm, the services cannot be changed after submission. A government payment control number will be generated for payments for that bill.
12. A control number will be generated and the status updated to Unpaid until it’s paid.
13. Once the payment is done, the payment status will change to Paid, and only then can the user proceed with the application submission. You can also view the receipt and print it for filing.
14. On the next window, you can view all the details you have entered on your application by expanding the collapsed sections. If everything is okay, check the Declaration box and click on Submit.
15. A summary of the application status can now be found on the Application Submenu of the Main Menu item. You have to click the + button next to the application date, to expand and view the status of each service which was applied for. Each service is processed separately, and hence the different status sections.
16. Using the Preview button, you can have a preview of all the submitted data after submission.
3.3 Completion of the application (ADR Practitioner)
1. Once the application has been approved, a Control number will be generated and the user can view it from the Services Fees section on the Application page. The Control Number will be sent to the user’s Email and Phone number.
2. The user can also see it when they click on the View Bill button next to the applied service. A detailed bill will be generated, where the user can click in the print button to download and print the bill for reference purposes.
3. Once the bill has been paid, a user can click on the View Receipt button to download and print an official government receipt for the transaction.
4. To download an official certificate, the user will click on the Print button and a Declaration form will apprear.
5. Click on the print button to get the official certificate. But first, you are required to confirm that you agree with the code of conduct and all the details and true to the best of your knowledge. Check the box and confirm.
6. Now you can download the certificate after confirming the declaration form.
3.4 How to Appeal for a rejected service
1. On the Applications Menu, find the Current Applications. Expand the list of services using the + sign button and find the rejected service. In the action column, click on the Appeal button and a new section will show for the appealed applications.
2. The application will be sent again to the Assistant Registrar for review.
4. Conclusion
The Legal Services System (LSS) modernizes access to legal services by providing a user-friendly platform for both service providers and individuals seeking assistance. With features like AI-powered chatbots and advanced data management, the system enhances efficiency, accessibility, and service delivery. By following this guide, users can effectively navigate the system’s tools to streamline operations and improve access to justice. We encourage all users to fully explore the features and resources available.