CBSE Class 12 Sample Paper 2026 for Legal Studies

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2026

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LEGAL STUDIES Code No. 074
Sample Question Paper
Class – XII (2025-26)

Time Allowed: 3 hours Maximum Marks: 80

General Instructions:

1. The question paper contains four sections – A, B, C and D
 1.1 Section A – Q.1-Q.20 – Multiple choice questions
 1.2. Section B – Q.21 – Q.28 2 Marks each. The answers should not exceed 40 words each.
 1.3. Section C – Q.29 – Q36. 3 marks each. The answers should exceed 100 words each.
 1.4. Section D – Q.37 – Q.40. 5 marks each. The answers should not exceed 140 words each.

S.No Question Marks

SECTION A

1 An NGO, Citizens for Clean Air, approached the court to challenge the operation 1
of a factory emitting toxic pollutants into the atmosphere. The court permitted the
NGO to file the case, stating that environmental protection is in the interest of
society as a whole.
Which of the following statements best explains the court's decision?

(A) NGOs have special rights under the Constitution to file lawsuits.
(B) The court extended the concept of locus standi in public interest.
(C) The factory violated corporate governance principles.
(D) The NGO was a shareholder in the factory.

2 Bhavya, a minor, borrowed a sum of money from his neighbour, Mihir by executing 1
a mortgage of his property in favour of Mihir.
Bhavya has approached the court for the cancellation of the mortgage. Which of
the following statements is true?
(A) The mortgage contract is valid and Mihir will recover money advanced to
Bhavya.
(B) Mortgage contract is voidable, but Mihir will not be able to recover money
advanced to Bhavya.
(C) The mortgage contract is void and Mihir will not be able to recover his
money advanced to Bhavya.
(D) The mortgage contract is illegal and Mihir cannot recover his money
advanced to Bhavya.

1|Page

3 Match Column A (Stages of Crime) with Column B (Sequence of Events) and 1
state the correct option.

Column A Column B

A. Intention (i) A person enters the bank wearing a mask and
gloves but gets nervous when he sees the security
personnel. He escapes without taking any money.

B Preparation (ii) A person plans to rob a bank. He shares his idea
with a friend, expressing his desire to carry out the
robbery.

C Attempt (iii) The person enters the bank, manages to sneak in
the pistol, threatening the staff, and takes the cash
before escaping.

D Commission (iv) The person researches the bank’s security
measures and scouts the bank’s layout and
observes the security guard’s routine.

Options:
(a) A (i); B (ii); C (iii); D (iv)
(b) A (ii); B (iv); C (i); D (iii)
(c) A ( ii); B (iv); C (iii);D (i)
(d) A (i); B (iv); C (iii); D (ii)

4 Aman owns two vehicles: a car and a jeep. Aman is interested in selling the car, 1
while Gaurav wants to purchase the jeep.
In this case, which legal maxim will apply with respect to consent in a contract?
(A) Audi Alteram Partem
(B) quod approbo non reprobo
(C) stare decisis
(D) Consensus Ad Idem

5 Com-tech, a multinational company is planning to set up its office in cyber city and 1
is seeking a location for a period of fifteen years.
Which mode of transfer would be appropriate in this case?
(A) Sale
(B) Lease
(C) Exchange
(D) Mortgage

2|Page

6 Given below are two statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read 1
them carefully and choose the correct answer from the options that follow.

Assertion (A): Article 48 A of the Constitution of India mandates that the State
take steps to protect and improve the environment, while also safeguarding forests
and wildlife.

Reason (R): Article 48A promotes industrialization and urban development over
environmental protection, allowing the State to prioritize economic growth even at
the cost of forest and wildlife degradation.

(A) Both (A) and (R) are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(B) Both (A) and (R) are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(C) A is true, R is false
(D) A is false, R is true

7 Given below are two statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read 1
them carefully and choose the correct answer from the options that follow.

Assertion (A) : The Supreme Court of India can take suo motu action in matters
of public importance or enforce fundamental rights.

Reason(R): Under Article 32 of the Indian Constitution, the Supreme Court has
the authority to directly intervene in cases of fundamental rights violations and can
initiate proceedings on its own if necessary, even without a formal petition.

Choose the correct answer:
(A) Both (A) and (R) are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(B) Both (A) and (R) are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(C) A is true, R is false
(D) A is false, R is true

8 The farm of Sultanpur is the property of Chaman and worth rupees eight lakhs. 1
Amar, by an instrument of gift, professes to transfer the farm of Sultanpur to Bolu,
giving by the same instrument rupees ten lakhs to Chaman. Chaman chooses to
retain the farm. Which of the following statements is correct?

(A) Chaman forfeits the gift of rupees ten lakhs due to the doctrine of election.
(B) Chaman can retain rupees ten lakhs as it is a gift without transferring the
farm.
(C) Chaman cannot choose to retain the farm of Sultanpur.
(D) Amar, by the same instrument of gift, cannot profess to transfer the farm
and give ten lakhs to Chaman.

3|Page

9 Identify the correct statement that reflects the history of alternative dispute 1
resolution (ADR) in India.
(A) The modern adversarial model of the Indian judiciary was introduced after
the British colonial era, replacing native ADR methods.
(B) Native ADR techniques in India existed even before the establishment of
English-style courts during the British colonial period.
(C) English legal systems had no influence on the practice of Indian courts,
advocates, and judges.
(D) The introduction of English courts in India abolished all traditional methods
of dispute resolution.

10 Once a property has been transferred through a relinquishment, sale, or gift deed 1
to a recipient, it is essential to have the transfer recorded in the government
records. Which of the following methods is used to officially update the ownership
in these records?
(A) Registration
(B) Mutation
(C) Mortgage
(D) Attestation

11 Rajeev Verma, a celebrated painter, was commissioned by the state government 1
to create a large painting for the newly constructed state library. The artwork,
completed in 1990 after four years of meticulous effort, was removed in 2020
during a major renovation to make space for new exhibitions. While being moved
to storage, the painting was accidentally damaged.
Under the Copyright Act, 1957, identify the right of Rajeev Verma that has been
violated due to the accidental damage of the painting?
(A) Right of Paternity
(B) Right of Integrity
(C) Right of Reproduction
(D) Right of Distribution

12 Which of the following is a Fundamental Duty inserted by the 86th Amendment? 1
(A) Right to education for children between age six and fourteen is now a
fundamental right under Article 21A.
(B) Provision for early childhood care and education to children below the age
of six years.
(C) Providing opportunities for education to children by their parents between
the age of six and fourteen years.
(D) Promotion of educational and economic interests of weaker sections and
protection from social injustice and all forms of exploitation.

4|Page

13 Shakila, a Class IV employee under the Central Government, belongs to the 1
minority community. She has moved the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT)
regarding a matter of discrimination in salary in her department. However, the
matter has been pending for a very long time. She now wants to approach the
National Commission for Minorities to seek speedy redressal. What are the
options available to her?

(A) She can move the National Commission for Minorities for speedy redressal
as it is a case of discrimination.
(B) She can take her matter before the Lok Adalat.
(C) She will have to wait before the Central Administrative Tribunal for disposal
of her case.
(D) She can file a plea before the National Commission for Women against
discrimination.

14 Ravi was caught stealing groceries worth ₹2,000 from a neighborhood store. He 1
was arrested, tried in court, and sentenced to one year in prison. While
announcing the sentence, the judge stated that the punishment was intended to
penalize Ravi for breaking the law, discourage others from committing similar
crimes, and give Ravi an opportunity to reform himself in prison. The judge also
clarified that no compensation would be ordered for the store owner, as the focus
was on punishing the offender.

Which objective of criminal law is clearly not reflected in the judge’s statement?

(A) Deterrence
(B) Retribution
(C) Rehabilitation
(D) Restoration

15 An officer in the Indian Army is facing a disciplinary issue and seeks legal 1
assistance. The matter involves cyber law violations during active duty. The case
is referred to a specialized department within the army that deals with such legal
issues and advises the Chief of Army Staff. Which department is handling the
officer’s case?

(A) Ministry of law and justice
(B) Judge advocate general’s (jag) department
(C) Indian judicial service
(D) Defence accounts department

5|Page

16 Ms. Hazra, in 1922, fought a significant case against the Patna High Court. This 1
case is often cited as a turning point in the struggle for gender equality in the Indian
legal profession. What was the core issue of her fight, and how did it impact the
legal profession for women in India?

(A) Ms. Hazra fought for women to be allowed to appear as advocates in the
Patna High Court, challenging the restriction that limited legal practice to
men only.
(B) Ms. Hazra fought for the inclusion of women in the judicial system,
specifically to become judges in the Patna High Court.
(C) Ms. Hazra challenged the Bar Council's rule that prohibited women from
taking legal examinations, marking a victory for women's access to legal
education.
(D) Ms. Hazra fought for equal pay for women advocates, claiming gender
discrimination in compensation for legal services.

17 In 2024, a prominent legal case involving the constitutionality of a new law was 1
brought before the Supreme Court of India. The petition was filed by an Advocate
on Record, who had the necessary clearance to represent cases directly before
the Court. However, the counsel appearing to argue the case before the judges
was a Senior Advocate, known for her extensive experience and expertise. The
issue arose as to whether the Senior Advocate could directly file and represent
the case, or whether she needed an Advocate on Record to represent the case in
the Supreme Court formally.
According to the Advocates Act, 1961, how are Senior Advocates and Advocates
on Record distinguished in terms of their roles and functions in the Supreme
Court?

(A) Senior Advocates can file and argue cases in the Supreme Court without
the need for an Advocate on Record.
(B) An Advocate on Record must always file the case, while Senior Advocates
can only argue the case after it is filed.
(C) Senior Advocates can file cases independently, and Advocates on Record
only serve to assist in filing cases.
(D) Senior Advocates are limited to representing clients in High Courts and
cannot appear in the Supreme Court without an Advocate on Record.

18 An individual files a complaint against a government-owned insurance company 1
for rejecting his claim without valid reason. The matter is investigated by an
authority that helps resolve the issue without going to court and ensures fair
treatment.
Who is most likely handling this complaint?

6|Page

(A) Lokpal
(B) Insurance Ombudsman
(C) District Consumer Forum
(D) Arbitrator

19 Darjeeling tea, known for its distinct flavor and quality, is grown only in specific 1
regions of West Bengal. The producers have legal protection to prevent others
from using the name "Darjeeling" for tea not grown there.
What type of intellectual property right protects this name?
(A) Patent
(B) Trademark
(C) Geographical Indication
(D) Copyright

20 A landlord and tenant are in a dispute over unpaid rent and property damage. 1
They bring the matter to court seeking a resolution. The court finds that there are
elements that could lead to an acceptable settlement for both parties.
According to Section 89 CPC, what is the most appropriate action for the court?

(A) The court should formulate the settlement terms and prioritize a full trial.
(B) The court should attempt to settle the dispute solely based on its own
formulated terms without any input from the parties.
(C) The court should formulate settlement terms, share them with the parties
for feedback, and based on their input, refer the case to a suitable ADR.
(D) The court should request the parties to independently resolve their dispute
outside the judicial system.

SECTION B

21 Mention the grounds for the impeachment of a Supreme Court or High Court 2
(A) judge, and what majority is required in Parliament to pass the impeachment
motion?
(OR)

(B) Explain the significance of the Supreme Court’s original jurisdiction under Article
131 of the Indian Constitution. How does it differ from appellate and advisory
jurisdictions?

22 Raghav Singh, a resident of the village of Juhgarh, is accused of murdering his 2
wife, Meera Singh. Meera was found severely injured at their home, and before
her death, she made a statement to a police officer and a doctor. In her statement

7|Page

just before dying, Meera stated that Raghav had attacked her with a knife after an
argument. The prosecution seeks to use this statement as evidence in the trial
against Raghav.

State the conditions when the above statement made by Meera Singh can be
admitted as evidence against Raghav as per law of crimes.

23 State the primary functions of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas established under the 2
(A) Lokpal and Lokayukta Act, 2013?
(OR)

(B) Explain how Lok Adalats ensure speedy and cost-effective dispute resolution in
India.

24 A 13-year-old girl named Aarti, who lives in a small village, works long hours in a 2
local factory making toys. She is forced to work in hazardous conditions, is
deprived of education, and is often physically exhausted. Aarti's parents, due to
financial difficulties, are unable to stop her from working, as they depend on the
income.

Which is the forum that can be approached to look into the violation of Arti’s rights?
State any two powers of this forum.

25 In the North Sea Continental Shelf Case (1969), the International Court of Justice 2
(A) (ICJ) outlined the key elements for the formation of customary international law.
State these key elements.
(OR)

(B)
Explain the implication of Article 59 of the Statute of the ICJ regarding the binding
effect of its decisions on non-parties to a case.

26 Ramesh, a farmer from a remote village, was accused of trespassing on a wealthy 2
landowner's property. Lacking knowledge of the legal system and unable to afford
a lawyer, Ramesh approached the District Legal Services Authority for help.
Despite being eligible for free legal aid under the Legal Services Authorities Act,
1987, his application was delayed. Consequently, he missed a critical hearing,
and the court ruled in favor of the landowner.

Evaluate the role of legal aid when poverty is an obstacle in the way of getting
justice for individuals like Ramesh.

8|Page

27 What is the primary role of the Collegium System in India? Discuss its composition. 2

28 A startup develops a unique method for preserving fruits without using chemicals. 2
The founders are unsure whether to apply for a patent or keep the process
confidential. They fear that if they disclose the method in a patent application,
competitors might find ways to copy or slightly modify it. After discussion, they
decide not to file for a patent and instead choose to keep the method confidential
while using it commercially.

Identify the type of intellectual property being used. Mention one key difference
between this and a patent.

SECTION C

29 ‘Increasing the retirement age of judges will have significant benefits.’- Justify. 3
(A) (OR)

(B) Analyze the role of judicial review as a mechanism for maintaining the balance of
power within a democratic government. Examine the significance of the judiciary
to nullify legislative and executive actions,

30 (I) Give the meaning of International Law. 3

(II) Identify the category of International law that will apply to the cases given
below:
i. Nordland and Queeland are two neighboring countries. Nordland objects to
Queeland’s construction of a dam on the Rivora River, claiming it violates the
1960 Rivora Water Treaty. Nordland argues that the dam will reduce water
supply for its farmers.

ii. Rajesh Sharma, an Indian businessman enters into a contract with a UK based
Company, TechSolutions Ltd. for providing software solutions. After a few
months a dispute arises, as Rajesh alleges that TechSolutions Ltd. breached
the terms of the contract by failing to deliver the software on time, causing
significant financial losses. Rajesh decides to take the matter to court in India,
seeking damages. However, TechSolutions Ltd. argues that according to the
contract’s choice of law and forum clause, the case should be heard in the UK
courts under English law.

31 Explain the role and jurisdiction of ‘Permanent Lok Adalat’ under the Legal 3
(A) Services Authorities(Amendment) Act, 2002. How do Permanent Lok Adalat differ
from regular Lok Adalat in resolving disputes?
(OR)

9|Page

(B) Describe the circumstances that led to the enactment of the Legal Services
Authorities Act, 1987. How does the Act promote access to justice for weaker
sections of society?

32 Identify the nature of contract in the cases given below under the Indian Contract 3
Act, 1872 and comment whether these are valid, void or voidable contracts.
(a) Rohit agrees to sell his car to Neha for ₹2 lakh, with the condition that the
sale will only occur if Neha secures a bank loan of ₹1.5 lakh within the next
two weeks. Neha applies for the loan but does not get approval within the
specified time frame. Rohit, therefore, refuses to sell the car.
(b) Amber, a businessman, enters into a contract with Ankit, an overseas
supplier, to import 100 smartphones worth ₹5 lakh into India. The contract
specifies that the goods will be shipped within a month, and Amber will make
full payment upon delivery. However, just a week before the shipment is
scheduled to arrive, the Indian government changes its import regulations,
imposing a sudden ban on the import of these smartphones due to national
security concerns. As a result, Amber cannot legally receive or sell the
smartphones.

33 Identify the type of arbitration used in each scenario and explain why the chosen 3
(A) type of arbitration is suitable for the given dispute.
1. An Indian company enters into a contract with a supplier based in Singapore.
A dispute arises over the terms of the contract, and both parties agree to
resolve it through arbitration under the rules of the Singapore International
Arbitration Centre (SIAC), but the arbitral award is required to be enforced in
India.
2. A commercial dispute arises between two multinational companies, one
based in New Delhi and the other in London, over the terms of a joint venture
agreement. Both companies agree to take the help of the International
Chamber of Commerce (ICC) to administer the arbitration.
(OR)

(B) Identify the type of mediation in each scenario and state how each type is suited
to the specific situation.
1. Two business partners, Mr. X and Mr. Y, are involved in a conflict over the
management of their joint venture. Both partners are willing to preserve their
relationship but are struggling to communicate effectively. They decide to
approach a mediator who facilitates their discussions, helping them
understand each other’s perspectives and guiding them towards a mutually
beneficial solution.

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2. A long-standing family dispute over the inheritance of property arises. The
family members have deeply rooted emotional issues, and the mediator
focuses not just on resolving the dispute but on transforming the relationships
between the parties, helping them understand each other's feelings and
experiences.

34 See the images given below and answer the questions: 3

Image A Image B

(i) Identify the type of Tort wrong that is committed in the above two images A
and B.
(ii) Differentiate between the two types of tort wrong.

35 Explain any three circumstances under which legal aid can be denied or withdrawn 3
according to the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.

36 Describe any three key features of the National Legal Services Authority (Free 3
(A) and Competent Legal Services) Regulations, 2010, adopted under the Legal
Services Authorities Act, 1987 regarding involvement of lawyers for legal service.
(OR)

(B) Explain any three components of Free Legal Services provided under the Legal
Services Authorities Act, 1987, and mention the purpose of introducing pre-
litigation services.

SECTION D

37 In the context of India's legal market, how can law graduates leverage emerging 5
(A) opportunities to build successful careers? (Any five)
(OR)

(B) Give a comparative analysis of legal education in India, the United Kingdom, and
the United States, focusing on the structure, curriculum, and professional
requirements for becoming a lawyer in each country.

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38 Bansi Das, a migrant labourer, was arrested on the wrongful charges of theft while 5
he was participating in a peaceful demonstration against the low wages for migrant
labourers. He was not informed of the reasons for his arrest, and no legal
representation was provided to him. During his detention, Bansi Das was not
allowed to communicate with his family or friends, and he was kept in custody for
more than 48 hours without being produced before a magistrate.
His wife, Santoshi Devi, unaware of his whereabouts wants to take legal action
but does not have the means to file a case.

(A) Identify and explain the Fundamental Right of Bansi Das that is being
violated in the above situation.
(B) Explain the constitutional remedy available to Bansi Das or his wife in the
above case.

39 (I) Explain the concept of ‘No Fault Liability’ in tort law. 5
(A) (II) Read the case study given below and answer on the basis of the concept
explained in (I) above.

The Jal Waterworks Company was responsible for supplying water to the
surrounding area and had constructed a large reservoir to store the water.
The company’s reservoir was located near Tek Chand’s property. In the course of
normal operations, the reservoir, which was supposed to contain water, eventually
overflowed, causing water to escape and flood Tek Chand’s land.
Although the company was not negligent in maintaining the reservoir, Tek Chand
sought compensation from the company for the damage to his property.
Explain the liability of Jal Waterworks Company, if any, as there is no negligence
here by the company, for damaging the property of Tek Chand in light of the
decided case law.
(OR)

(B) (I) Explain the concept of ‘negligence’ under tort law.
(II) A popular mall, CityPoint Plaza, had recently installed a decorative water
fountain in its central atrium. One afternoon, an employee mopped the floor
around the fountain but failed to place a "Wet Floor" sign.
Mr. Rahul Verma, a software engineer, was walking through the atrium on his
lunch break. Unaware of the slippery surface, he slipped and fell, fracturing his
wrist. Rahul's injury required surgery, physical therapy, and a month-long leave
from work, leading to financial losses and emotional distress.
Can Rahul move the court under Tort of negligence against City Point Plaza?
Justify your answer with the help of decided case law.

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40 Based on the TWO scenarios given below, answer the questions that follow. 5

(i) Ravi is a young software engineer who recently started his own business,
RTech Solutions, providing software development services. He works alone,
developing software solutions for small businesses, handling client
communication, and managing the financial aspects of his business. Ravi
keeps all the profits from his work.

Identify and explain the type of business that is being run by Ravi. If Ravi’s
business faces financial losses or debt, what is Ravi’s liability?

(ii) Vikram and Ayesha are two experienced professionals with a shared passion
for sustainable energy solutions. Together, they decided to launch
GreenTech Innovations, a company focused on providing eco-friendly
energy solutions to clients.

Vikram and Ayesha agreed to form a business model that combines their skills
and resources while ensuring that their personal assets would be protected. Both
of them would contribute equally to the business in terms of capital, and both
would be responsible for the management of the company.

Identify and explain the type of business being run by Vikram and Ayesha. If their
business suffers loss, then what is the liability of Vikram and Ayesha?

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Study Materials
Notes

Model Papers Class 6 Notes

Sample Papers Class 7 Notes
Half Yearly Sample Papers Class 8 Notes

Class 9 Notes
Important Resources
Class 10 Notes
Periodic Table
Class 11 Notes
Writing Skills / Formats

Maps of India / World Class 12 Notes

Books and Solutions

NCERT Books
NCERT Book Solutions
HC Verma Chapter Wise Solutions
RD Sharma Solutions
CGBSE Solutions