How to File Criminal Case in Pakistan Courts
Complete guide | For full criminal law, see our Criminal Law Hub
Written by: Mr. Atta Ullah Baloch (Advocate High Court, 25 Years)
1. Introduction
Understanding how to file criminal case in Pakistan courts is essential. This guide explains FIR registration, private complaints, appeals, and revisions. For detailed FIR procedure, see How to Lodge FIR and FIR & Police Procedures.
2. Types of Criminal Courts
| Court | Jurisdiction | How to File |
|---|---|---|
| Supreme Court | Constitutional, final appellate | Through advocate on record |
| High Court | Original (bail, writs), appellate | Through advocate |
| Court of Session | Serious offences (murder, dacoity) | Through prosecutor or counsel |
| Magistrate Class I | Offences up to 3 years | Private complaint or police challan |
| Special Courts | CNSA, ATA, Banking | Through advocate |
3. Two Ways to File Criminal Case
📝 Method 1: FIR (Section 154 CrPC)
For cognizable offences. Police registers FIR and investigates. See How to Lodge FIR.
⚖️ Method 2: Private Complaint (Section 200 CrPC)
For non-cognizable offences or when police refuses. See FIR & Police Guide.
4. Filing via FIR (Section 154 CrPC)
- Step 1: Approach police station having jurisdiction.
- Step 2: Provide information to SHO.
- Step 3: SHO writes FIR, reads back to you.
- Step 4: Sign FIR, get free copy.
- Step 5: Police investigates under Section 156 CrPC.
- Step 6: Police files challan under Section 173 CrPC.
5. Private Complaint (Section 200 CrPC)
When police refuses FIR, file directly before Magistrate. For court procedures, see this guide.
- Step 1: Draft complaint with all details.
- Step 2: Attach witnesses and evidence.
- Step 3: File before Magistrate.
- Step 4: Magistrate examines complainant on oath.
- Step 5: Magistrate takes cognizance under Section 190 CrPC.
6. Where to File by Offence Type
| Offence | Section | Court |
|---|---|---|
| Murder | 302 PPC | Court of Session — see Murder Defence |
| Theft | 379 PPC | Magistrate Class I — see Theft & Robbery |
| Cheque Dishonour | 489-F PPC | Magistrate Class I — see Cheque Bounce Law |
| Narcotics | CNSA 1997 | Special Court — see Narcotics Laws |
7. Documents Required
📄 Mandatory
Complaint/FIR copy, Affidavit, Witness list
📋 Evidence
Medical reports, Forensic, CDR — see CDR Admissibility
8. Appeals & Revisions
| Type | Forum | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Appeal | Sessions/High Court | 30/60 days |
| Appeal against Acquittal | High Court | 60 days |
| Revision | Sessions/High Court | 90 days |
| Quashment | High Court | No limit — see Rights of Accused |
9-11. Court Fee, FAQs, Expert
For legal drafting help, see Legal Drafting Services. For case law, visit Case Laws Database.
Q1: Difference between FIR and private complaint?
FIR by police; private complaint directly before Magistrate.
Q2: Can I file directly in court without police?
Yes, via Section 200 CrPC. See How to Lodge FIR.
Q7: What if police refuses FIR?
File under Section 22-A/22-B CrPC before Justice of Peace, or private complaint. See FIR & Police Guide.
Mr. Atta Ullah Baloch
Advocate High Court | 25 Years
"Act immediately. If police refuses, file 22-A/22-B petition. Contact me for legal help."