Criminal defence from bail through trial and appeal
A criminal case can turn your life upside down in a single day: a police call, an FIR, an arrest, or a court summons. What you do in the first hours can affect the course of the proceedings. Understanding your rights and obtaining legal advice from the beginning can help you respond appropriately at each stage.
We represent people accused of criminal offences at different stages of criminal proceedings, from the initial police investigation through trial, appeals, and proceedings before higher courts.
At the Police Stage
- Advice when an FIR is filed or threatened: Explaining the nature of the allegations, the immediate legal position, and the steps that may be available.
- Guidance during police questioning: Advising clients regarding their legal rights and obligations while cooperating with a criminal investigation.
- Arrest and custody support: Acting promptly to assist with legal remedies and court proceedings following an arrest or during custody.
- Anticipatory bail: Seeking protection from arrest where the applicable legal requirements are satisfied.
Bail
- Regular bail: Applying for release from custody before the appropriate Magistrate, Sessions Court, High Court, or Supreme Court, depending on the circumstances.
- Bail after chargesheet or during trial: Pursuing appropriate bail remedies at different stages of the criminal proceedings.
- Bail conditions and cancellation: Advising on bail conditions and representing clients in proceedings concerning modification or cancellation of bail.
Cancelling False or Unfair Cases
- Quashing of FIRs and criminal proceedings: Approaching the High Court in appropriate cases where the allegations or proceedings may warrant intervention under the applicable law.
- Settlement and compromise: Exploring lawful settlement or compromise where the nature of the offence and applicable legal provisions permit such resolution.
Trial Defence
- Study of the chargesheet and evidence: Examining the chargesheet, witness statements, documents, forensic material, and other evidence to identify relevant factual and legal issues.
- Cross-examination of witnesses: Testing the consistency, reliability, and evidentiary value of prosecution testimony through cross-examination.
- Defence evidence and arguments: Presenting relevant defence material and legal submissions based on the facts and evidence on record.
- Trial in Magistrate and Sessions Courts: Representing accused persons throughout the applicable trial proceedings.
Types of Cases We Handle
- Offences against the person and property
- Cheating, fraud, and breach of trust
- Cheque bounce cases
- Financial and economic offences
- Family and matrimonial criminal disputes
- Drug-related cases (NDPS)
- Child protection cases (POCSO)
- Other criminal matters
Appeals and Higher Courts
- Appeals against conviction or sentence
- Revision petitions
- Matters before the High Court and Supreme Court
Our Approach
Every accused person is entitled to the protections provided by law, including the right to a fair defence and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. We examine the facts, documents, evidence, and procedure carefully and develop the legal strategy around the material available on record. We treat client information with strict confidentiality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if an FIR has been filed against me?
Stay calm and obtain legal advice promptly. Avoid making statements or signing documents without understanding their legal implications. Depending on the circumstances, remedies such as anticipatory bail or other appropriate legal proceedings may be available.
What is the difference between anticipatory bail and regular bail?
Anticipatory bail is a form of protection from arrest that may be granted in accordance with the applicable law before an arrest takes place. Regular bail generally concerns release from custody after arrest, subject to the applicable legal requirements.
Can a false FIR be cancelled?
In appropriate cases, the High Court may exercise its powers to quash an FIR or criminal proceedings where the legal requirements for such intervention are satisfied. The facts, allegations, and available material must be examined individually.
Do I have to go to the police station if I get a notice?
A police notice should not be ignored. The nature of the notice and the applicable legal requirements should be reviewed promptly. Obtaining legal advice can help you understand your rights and obligations before responding or appearing.
How long does a criminal case take?
The duration varies depending on the nature of the offence, investigation, court, number of witnesses, evidence, procedural applications, and stage of the proceedings. A more realistic assessment can be given after reviewing the particular case.
Can a criminal case be settled?
Some criminal matters may be compounded, settled, or otherwise resolved in accordance with applicable law, while other offences cannot be privately settled. The nature of the offence and the relevant statutory provisions determine what options may be available.
Contact us at the first sign of trouble for a confidential consultation.