A criminal lawyer in Karachi defends individuals accused of offences under the Pakistan Penal Code 1860 and assists complainants in registering FIRs and prosecuting criminal complaints. MR Law Associates, led by Advocate Reema Jawed, provides criminal defense and prosecution assistance for fraud, theft, assault, cheque dishonor, cybercrime, and property-related criminal cases before Karachi's Magistrate Courts, Sessions Courts, and the High Court of Sindh.
Criminal law in Pakistan operates through a structured system of investigation, prosecution, and trial governed by the Code of Criminal Procedure 1898 (Cr.P.C.) and the Pakistan Penal Code 1860 (PPC). An accused person's rights, including the presumption of innocence and right to bail, are constitutionally protected. Whether you're filing a complaint or defending against criminal charges, competent legal representation directly impacts the outcome.
What Types of Criminal Cases Does MR Law Associates Handle?
MR Law Associates handles all categories of criminal matters commonly filed in Karachi courts, covering offences against persons, property, reputation, and commercial fraud. The firm represents both complainants (victims) and accused persons across all criminal court levels.
Fraud & White-Collar Crime
Defense and prosecution of criminal fraud, cheating (Section 420 PPC), criminal breach of trust (Section 406 PPC), and forgery (Section 468 PPC). Includes cases involving fake documents, investment scams, embezzlement, and cheque bounce cases under Section 489-F PPC.
Theft & Property Crimes
Cases involving theft (Section 378 PPC), robbery (Section 392 PPC), criminal trespass (Section 447 PPC), and mischief/property damage (Section 425 PPC). Includes vehicle theft, house burglary, and land grabbing under the Illegal Dispossession Act 2005.
Assault & Bodily Harm
Representation in assault cases (Section 352 PPC), hurt (Section 332 PPC), and grievous hurt (Section 337 PPC). Includes domestic violence cases, workplace assaults, and cases involving weapons. Self-defense claims are handled with supporting evidence.
Cybercrime
Cases under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 (PECA) including online harassment, identity theft, unauthorized access to data, electronic fraud, and defamation through social media. Complaints are filed through the FIA Cybercrime Wing.
How Does the FIR Registration Process Work in Karachi?
FIR (First Information Report) registration is the first step in initiating a criminal case in Pakistan. Under Section 154 of the Cr.P.C., police are legally obligated to register an FIR when informed of a cognizable offence. The FIR creates an official record that triggers police investigation.
- Approach the police station: Visit the police station within whose jurisdiction the offence occurred. Bring your CNIC, any evidence (messages, receipts, photos), and details of the incident.
- Provide information: The Duty Officer records your statement covering: what happened, when, where, who was involved, and what evidence exists.
- FIR drafting by Muharrir: The Muharrir (record clerk) drafts the FIR in Urdu. Your criminal lawyer reviews the draft to ensure correct PPC sections are cited and all relevant facts are included.
- Signing and copy: You sign the FIR. Section 154(2) Cr.P.C. entitles you to a free copy. Keep this copy safely; it's the foundation document for your case.
- Investigation: The SHO assigns an Investigating Officer (IO) who collects evidence, records witness statements (Section 161 Cr.P.C.), and arrests suspects if warranted.
- Challan submission: After investigation, the IO submits a challan (police report) to the court under Section 173 Cr.P.C., recommending trial.
What Should You Do If Police Refuse to Register Your FIR?
Police refusal to register FIRs is a common problem in Karachi. Despite Section 154 Cr.P.C. making registration mandatory for cognizable offences, some police stations delay or refuse registration. You have three legal remedies available.
| Remedy | How It Works | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| SSP/SP Application | Written complaint to the Senior Superintendent of Police, who directs the SHO to register | 3-7 days |
| Section 22-A Cr.P.C. | Application to the concerned Judicial Magistrate, who orders police to register the FIR | 1-2 weeks |
| Registered Post | Send your complaint by registered mail to the SHO. Registration becomes mandatory upon receipt | 7-14 days |
A criminal lawyer drafts these applications with proper legal citations and evidence attachments, significantly increasing the chances of prompt FIR registration. We've handled situations where direct police station visits failed but a well-drafted Section 22-A application succeeded within days.
What Are the Stages of a Criminal Case in Pakistan?
A criminal case in Pakistan follows a defined procedural sequence from FIR registration through final judgment. Each stage has specific timelines and requirements under the Code of Criminal Procedure 1898. Understanding these stages helps you know what to expect at each point in your case.
| Stage | What Happens | Key Law |
|---|---|---|
| 1. FIR Registration | Complaint recorded at police station | Section 154 Cr.P.C. |
| 2. Investigation | Police collect evidence, record statements, arrest if needed | Sections 156-173 Cr.P.C. |
| 3. Challan | Police submit investigation report to court | Section 173 Cr.P.C. |
| 4. Charge Framing | Court formally charges the accused with specific offences | Sections 241-A, 265-C Cr.P.C. |
| 5. Prosecution Evidence | Prosecution presents witnesses and documents | Qanun-e-Shahadat 1984 |
| 6. Defense Evidence | Accused presents defense witnesses and evidence | Section 342 Cr.P.C. |
| 7. Arguments | Both sides present final legal arguments | Section 265-F Cr.P.C. |
| 8. Judgment | Court convicts or acquits the accused | Section 265-H Cr.P.C. |
After judgment, either party can file an appeal. The accused appeals a conviction to the High Court. The complainant can challenge an acquittal. Appeals must be filed within 30 days of the judgment. Bail applications can be filed at any stage before conviction.
What Is the Difference Between Cognizable and Non-Cognizable Offences?
The distinction between cognizable and non-cognizable offences determines how police respond to your complaint. Cognizable offences are serious crimes where police can act immediately. Non-cognizable offences are less serious and require court permission before police involvement.
| Feature | Cognizable | Non-Cognizable |
|---|---|---|
| Police arrest | Without warrant | Only with Magistrate's warrant |
| Police investigation | Without Magistrate permission | Needs Magistrate's order |
| Report type | FIR (mandatory) | NCR (Non-Cognizable Report) |
| Examples | Murder, robbery, kidnapping, fraud | Defamation, minor assault, cheating under Rs. 3,000 |
| Severity | Serious offences | Less serious offences |
Why Choose MR Law Associates for Criminal Cases in Karachi?
MR Law Associates provides criminal case representation at all court levels in Karachi. Advocate Reema Jawed handles criminal matters with focus on evidence analysis, proper procedural compliance, and strategic defense or prosecution depending on the client's position.
- FIR assistance: We ensure correct registration with proper PPC sections, which is critical for the case outcome. Incorrect FIR contents weaken cases at trial.
- Defense strategy: Every criminal defense begins with analyzing the prosecution's evidence for weaknesses, procedural errors, and recoverable legal points.
- Bail expertise: We file bail applications at all stages, from pre-arrest bail to post-arrest and appellate bail.
- Connected cases: Criminal matters often have civil dimensions. Property crime cases require civil suit expertise. Fraud cases may involve cheque bounce proceedings. We handle both tracks.
- Confidential handling: Criminal cases carry social sensitivity. We maintain strict confidentiality with all client information and case details.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Cases in Karachi
What should I do if police refuse to register my FIR?
You have three remedies: (1) written application to the SSP/SP, (2) application to the Judicial Magistrate under Section 22-A Cr.P.C., or (3) sending your complaint by registered post to the SHO. A criminal lawyer drafts these applications for maximum effectiveness.
Can an FIR be quashed after registration?
Yes. The High Court can quash an FIR under Section 561-A Cr.P.C. if it is frivolous, malicious, or discloses no cognizable offence. Compoundable offences can be settled between parties, leading to FIR closure with court permission.
How long does a criminal case take in Karachi?
Criminal cases take 2 to 7 years for trial depending on the offence, witness count, and court workload. Summary trials for minor offences can conclude in months. Bail applications are typically heard within days to weeks.
What is the punishment for filing a false FIR?
Filing a false FIR is punishable under Section 182 PPC (imprisonment up to 6 months) and Section 211 PPC (imprisonment up to 2 years). The falsely accused can also file a civil suit for damages against the complainant.
What is the difference between cognizable and non-cognizable offences?
Cognizable offences (murder, robbery, fraud) allow police arrest without warrant. Non-cognizable offences (defamation, minor assault) require Magistrate permission. FIRs are for cognizable offences; NCRs for non-cognizable ones.
What are the stages of a criminal case in Pakistan?
The stages are: (1) FIR registration, (2) police investigation, (3) challan submission, (4) charge framing, (5) prosecution evidence, (6) defense evidence, (7) final arguments, and (8) judgment (conviction or acquittal). Appeals follow if needed.
Need a Criminal Lawyer in Karachi?
Contact Advocate Reema Jawed for urgent criminal defense, FIR registration assistance, or bail applications.
Disclaimer: This page provides general information about criminal law in Pakistan and does not constitute legal advice. Criminal case outcomes depend on evidence, court discretion, and specific circumstances. If you have been arrested or are facing criminal charges, contact Advocate Reema Jawed immediately at 0336-3120798. MR Law Associates practices in Karachi, Pakistan.