If police refuse to register an FIR for a cognizable offence, you can apply to the Justice of Peace under sections 22-A and 22-B CrPC for an order directing registration. If a false FIR has been lodged against you, it can be challenged through a cancellation report during investigation or a quashment petition before the High Court under section 561-A CrPC.
Who this is for
- Victims whose complaint the police will not register as an FIR
- People named in a false or malicious FIR
- Families wanting an FIR transferred or re-investigated
- Businesses facing an FIR arising out of a civil or commercial dispute
How the fir registration & cancellation process works
- 1
Review the facts
We check whether the facts disclose a cognizable offence and which route fits: registration, cancellation or quashment.
- 2
Approach the police
We submit a written complaint to the SHO and senior officers so the refusal or the false case is on record.
- 3
Justice of Peace petition
For refusal to register, we file a petition under section 22-A CrPC before the Sessions Judge acting as Justice of Peace.
- 4
Cancellation or quashment
For a false FIR, we pursue cancellation during investigation or file a quashment petition before the High Court.
- 5
Protect against arrest
Where needed, we apply for pre-arrest bail while the FIR is being challenged.
Documents you need
- ◆The written complaint you gave to police, or a copy of the FIR
- ◆Your CNIC
- ◆Medical reports, receipts, messages or other evidence of the offence
- ◆Any previous applications to police officers
Timeline and fees
| Timeline | Justice of Peace petitions are often decided within a few weeks. Quashment petitions in the High Court take longer, depending on the court’s schedule. |
|---|---|
| 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 154, 22-A, 22-B and 561-A · Police Order, 2002 |
Registering an FIR
Under section 154 CrPC the police must record information about a cognizable offence. When they do not, the law gives you a remedy: the Justice of Peace can order registration. A well-drafted petition with supporting documents makes the difference.
Challenging a false FIR
False FIRs are common in property, family and business disputes. We collect evidence that the allegations are untrue, put it before the investigating officer, and seek cancellation. Where the FIR is an abuse of the process of law, we file for quashment before the Islamabad High Court or the Lahore High Court Rawalpindi Bench.
Transfer of investigation
If you believe the investigating officer is biased, we can apply to senior police officers for a change of investigation.
Frequently asked questions
What can I do if police refuse to register my FIR?
Send a written complaint to the SHO and senior officers, then file a petition before the Justice of Peace under section 22-A CrPC, who can direct the police to register the FIR.
Can a false FIR be cancelled?
Yes. If investigation shows the allegations are false, police can send a cancellation report to the Magistrate. The High Court can also quash an FIR in suitable cases.
Should I apply for bail while the FIR is being challenged?
If arrest is a real risk, yes. A quashment petition does not by itself stop arrest.
