Legal Resources

General information on common legal processes in Pakistan, and links to official government resources. This is informational only and does not constitute legal advice — for anything specific to your situation, consult a licensed advocate.

Filing an FIR (First Information Report)

A First Information Report is the document police prepare when they first receive information about a cognizable offence. Under Pakistani law, a police officer in charge of a station is generally required to register an FIR when informed of a cognizable offence, free of cost. If a station refuses, a complainant can approach a higher police officer, a magistrate, or file a private complaint under the Criminal Procedure Code. The FIR should record the date, time, and place of occurrence, the informant's statement, and be signed by the informant after it is read back to them.

Bail — the basics

Bail in Pakistan is broadly divided into bailable and non-bailable offences. In bailable offences, bail is a right and must be granted. In non-bailable offences, bail is at the court's discretion, weighing factors like the nature of the offence, evidence, and flight risk. Applications are typically made first before a Sessions Court, and if refused, can be pursued before the relevant High Court.

Small claims and civil suits

Civil disputes — property, contracts, recovery of money — are generally filed as a suit before the civil court with jurisdiction over the matter, under the Civil Procedure Code. Many provinces also have simplified small-claims procedures for lower-value disputes, intended to resolve matters faster than a full civil suit.

Family law — khula and dissolution of marriage

Family matters, including dissolution of marriage, custody, and maintenance, are handled by Family Courts under the Family Courts Act. A wife seeking dissolution through khula does not need to prove fault by the husband; courts have generally held that an irreconcilable breakdown of the marriage is sufficient grounds.

Official government resources

Laws and procedures can change, and their application varies by case. Always verify current requirements with a licensed advocate or the relevant court/authority directly.