Court Process

I can't afford a lawyer. How do I get free legal aid?

Yes, if you are eligible. All women and children, SC/ST members, persons with disabilities, people in custody, industrial workers, disaster victims and low-income people can get a free lawyer. Apply at your District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) or call 15100.

What is Lok Adalat? Can my case be settled there?

Yes, if both sides agree. Lok Adalat is a free settlement forum run by Legal Services Authorities. Its award works like a court decree and cannot be appealed, and court fee already paid is refunded. Crimes that cannot be legally compromised are not taken up.

How do I check my court case status and next hearing date?

Use the free eCourts Services website or mobile app. Enter your 16-character CNR number, or search by case number, party name or advocate name. You can see the next hearing date, the case stage and past orders.

I received a court summons. What should I do?

Don't ignore it. A summons orders you to come to court on a set date. In a civil case, if you stay away, the court may decide without hearing you (ex parte). In a criminal case, it may issue a warrant for your arrest.

A cheque given to me bounced. What can I do?

You can file a criminal case if the cheque was for a real debt. Send a written demand notice within 30 days of the bank's return memo. If they don't pay within 15 days of receiving it, file a complaint within the next one month.

What is a legal notice? Do I need a lawyer to send one?

A legal notice is a formal letter stating your claim and giving the other side time to settle before you go to court. You can send it yourself; a lawyer isn't required. It is compulsory only in some cases, like suing the government or a cheque bounce.

What is the difference between a civil case and a criminal case?

A civil case settles private disputes over money, property, family or contracts, and ends in orders like payment or possession. A criminal case is about a crime; the State prosecutes, and the punishment can be jail or a fine. The same facts can lead to both.

Is there a time limit to file a case?

Yes, for most civil cases and minor crimes. Many civil claims have a 3-year limit; suits to get back land or a house, usually 12 years. Minor crimes have 6-month to 3-year limits, but crimes punishable with over 3 years have none.

I lost my case. Can I appeal?

Usually yes, but act fast. A civil first appeal is generally due within 30 days, or 90 days if it goes to the High Court. A convicted person can appeal to a higher court, and a victim can appeal an acquittal. Lok Adalat awards cannot be appealed.

I'm going to court for the first time. What happens at a hearing?

Most hearings are short. Your case is called by its item number on the day's cause list; the judge hears the lawyers, records what happened and gives the next date. Many early dates are for paperwork or adjournments, so a case often takes many dates.