When police will not act, a victim can file a private complaint directly before the court under section 200 CrPC. Police harassment, illegal detention and failure to investigate can be challenged before the Justice of Peace or the High Court. We handle these applications and represent you before police officers and courts.
Who this is for
- Victims who want to file a private criminal complaint
- People harassed or illegally detained by police
- Complainants unhappy with how their case is being investigated
- People seeking the return of property held by police
How the criminal complaints & police matters process works
- 1
Assess the remedy
We decide whether a private complaint, an application to police or a petition to the court fits best.
- 2
Draft the complaint
We draft the complaint or application with the facts and the evidence that supports them.
- 3
Record statements
For a private complaint, the court records your statement and your witnesses’ statements.
- 4
Summons and trial
If the court is satisfied, it summons the accused and the case proceeds to trial.
Documents you need
- ◆Your CNIC
- ◆Details of the incident, with dates and places
- ◆Witness names and contact details
- ◆Any documents, photos, recordings or medical reports
Timeline and fees
| Timeline | Applications to police officers are answered within weeks. A private complaint takes time to reach the summoning stage, then proceeds like any trial. |
|---|---|
| Fees | Quoted in writing after we review your documents. Court matters are quoted stage by stage (filing, evidence, arguments) so you know the cost of each step before it starts. |
| Governing law | Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898: sections 22-A, 200 and 491 · Police Order, 2002 |
When the police route fails
Not every criminal matter goes smoothly through the police station. A private complaint puts your case directly before the court, which records evidence and decides whether to summon the accused.
Police harassment and illegal detention
Nobody may be held in custody without legal authority. Where police detain someone illegally or harass a family, we approach the Justice of Peace or the High Court for immediate relief.
Working with investigation
We also help complainants follow up on investigation, submit evidence, and request a change of investigating officer where the investigation is unfair.
Frequently asked questions
What is a private complaint?
A complaint filed directly in court under section 200 CrPC, instead of through police. It is useful when police will not register or properly investigate a case.
What can I do about illegal detention by police?
A habeas corpus petition can be filed before the High Court, or an application before the Justice of Peace, for the person’s production and release.
Can I get my property back from police?
Yes. An application can be made to the Magistrate for the return of case property held by police.
