A criminal defence lawyer protects you from the moment police or an agency take an interest in you: during investigation, at bail, through the trial before the Magistrate or Sessions Court, and in appeal. In Pakistan criminal cases run under the Pakistan Penal Code, 1860 and the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, and early legal advice often decides how the case goes.
Who this is for
- People named in an FIR or called by police for investigation
- Families of someone who has been arrested
- Accused persons whose challan has been submitted and trial has begun
- People convicted at trial who want to appeal
How the criminal law & criminal defence process works
- 1
Urgent consultation
We review the FIR, notices and facts the same day and advise you on arrest risk and next steps.
- 2
Bail and protection
Where arrest is likely, we file for pre-arrest bail; where you are in custody, for post-arrest bail.
- 3
Investigation stage
We join investigation with you, submit your version and evidence to the investigating officer, and challenge unfair steps.
- 4
Trial
We contest the charge, cross-examine prosecution witnesses, lead defence evidence and argue the case.
- 5
Appeal or revision
If the judgment goes against you, we file an appeal or revision before the Sessions Court or High Court.
Documents you need
- ◆Copy of the FIR or the complaint
- ◆Any police notice or summons you have received
- ◆Your CNIC
- ◆Documents, messages, recordings or witnesses that support your side
Timeline and fees
| Timeline | Bail applications are usually decided within days to a few weeks. A full trial can take many months, depending on the court, the number of witnesses and how often hearings are adjourned. |
|---|---|
| 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 | Pakistan Penal Code, 1860 · Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898 · Qanun-e-Shahadat Order, 1984 |
How we defend criminal cases
Most of a criminal case is decided before the trial begins. What is recorded in the FIR, what the investigating officer collects, and how you join investigation shape the evidence the court later sees. We get involved early, make sure your side is on the record, and keep you protected from unnecessary arrest.
Matters we handle
- Offences against the person, including hurt and harassment
- Offences against property: theft, cheating, criminal breach of trust and fraud
- Cheque dishonour under section 489-F PPC
- Cases investigated by the FIA, including cybercrime under PECA
- NAB inquiries, investigations and references
Our approach in court
We prepare cross-examination around the gaps and contradictions in the prosecution’s evidence, and we make sure the defence version is put to every key witness. Where the law allows, we also explore compounding or settlement when it serves you better than a long trial.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if police call me for investigation?
Speak to an advocate before you go. Where there is a risk of arrest, apply for pre-arrest bail first and then join the investigation with your lawyer’s guidance.
Can a criminal case be settled?
Many offences are compoundable under section 345 CrPC, which means the complainant can settle with the court’s permission. Serious offences cannot be compounded.
Which court hears my case?
Most cases are tried by a Judicial Magistrate or the Court of Session, depending on the offence. Special laws send some cases to special courts.
How long does a criminal trial take?
It varies widely. Simple cases may finish within months; cases with many witnesses can take longer.
