We act for individuals, families and businesses in civil disputes, family proceedings such as divorce, custody and maintenance, and criminal complaints, including appeals.
Overview
Litigation is the process of resolving a dispute in court. It covers three broad areas: civil matters, which are disputes between private parties about rights, money or property; family matters, such as marriage, divorce, custody and maintenance; and criminal matters, where the State alleges an offence.
Going to court is rarely quick and always carries risk. Procedure, evidence and time limits all matter, and a missed step can cost a case. Part of our job is to explain what lies ahead before you commit, including whether another route, such as negotiation or mediation, might serve you better.
Each area has its own courts and rules. We identify the right forum, prepare the case, and represent you at hearings, keeping you informed in plain terms at each stage.
We do not promise outcomes. We give an honest view of your position and the risks, and we treat each person’s situation with discretion and care.
Who we help
- Individuals and businesses involved in a civil dispute.
- Families dealing with divorce, custody, maintenance or related matters.
- People facing a criminal complaint or charge, and those who have been affected by one.
- Companies and in-house counsel who need support with a court case.
How we work
- We hear the full story and review any documents you hold.
- We explain your options, the likely process and the risks, including alternatives to court.
- We agree the scope of work and fee approach, including alternative fee arrangements where suitable.
- We prepare and conduct the case, and report to you after each important step.
What to bring to a first conversation
Bring any court papers, notices, orders or police documents you have received, and note the dates of any hearings or deadlines they mention. A short timeline of events, with names and dates, helps us understand the matter quickly. Tell us what you are hoping to achieve, and whether other family members or parties are involved. If the matter is urgent, say so at the start. Time limits and procedure differ between civil, family and criminal matters, so we confirm which applies before advising on next steps.
Typical work
Claim or defence papers for a civil dispute
Read the related questionCourt filings and hearing preparation for divorce, custody and maintenance
Read the related questionApplication for an urgent court order
Read the related questionResponse to, or pursuit of, a criminal complaint
Read the related questionAppeal or revision papers against a court decision
Read the related question
How a civil case usually moves forward
Courts and cases differ. This is a general outline, not a prediction for your case.
Review the facts and the options
We read your documents, explain your options and check any time limit that applies.
Send a notice or try to settle
A formal notice, or talks, sometimes resolve the matter before a case starts.
File the case or the reply
A claim is filed in the right court, or a reply is filed to a claim against you.
Evidence and hearings
Each side presents documents and witnesses. The court hears arguments on different dates.
Decision, then appeal or enforcement
The court decides. Either side may be able to appeal, and a decision may need to be enforced.
Civil and criminal cases compared
| Compared on | Civil case | Criminal case |
|---|---|---|
| Who brings it | A private person or business | The State, often after a complaint |
| What it is about | Money, property or rights | An alleged offence |
| What the court decides | Who is entitled to what | Whether the accused is guilty |
| Possible outcome | Payment, an order or a declaration | Acquittal or a penalty set by law |
Frequently asked questions
Information on this website is general in nature and is not legal advice. Anything that depends on the law is marked until a lawyer has checked it.
What is the difference between a civil and a criminal case?
A civil case is a dispute between private parties, usually about money, property or rights, and the court decides who is entitled to what. A criminal case is brought by the State over an alleged offence, and the court decides whether the accused is guilty.
More detail
The same event can sometimes lead to both kinds of case. Family matters are generally heard separately.
Which court should I go to?
It depends on the type of dispute, its value, where it arose and who is involved. Family matters, for example, are generally heard by specialist courts. Starting in the wrong place can cost time, so we confirm the correct forum before any step is taken.
What should I do if I am served with court papers?
Read them carefully and note the date and any deadline for a reply. Do not ignore them. Keep the papers and the envelope or message they came in, and get legal advice quickly, because missing a deadline can harm your case.
More detail
Bring everything you received to the first conversation. We will explain what the papers mean and what must be done by when.
What should I do if I am arrested or a complaint is filed against me?
Stay calm, be polite and do not sign anything you do not understand. Ask to contact a lawyer or a family member. Write down what happened and who was present. Get legal advice as soon as you can. Your rights depend on the circumstances and the law.
How long does a court case take?
There is no standard length. A simple matter may finish within months, while a contested one can take years. It depends on the court, the type of case, the number of parties and how busy the court is. We give you a realistic range at the start.
More detail
Appeals can add further time. Settlement, where suitable, can shorten the process.
What documents do I need for a family matter?
Usually you need identity documents and the marriage record. Depending on the matter, you may also need children’s birth records, proof of income and expenses, and messages or records relevant to the dispute. Bring what you have and tell us what is missing.
Can a family matter be settled without going to court?
Often, yes. Families can reach an agreement through direct talks, a mediator or a lawyer. An agreement is usually written down. Some steps, such as a formal divorce or an order about a child, may still need a court or an official process.
What does it cost to bring a case?
Costs depend on the type of case, how long it runs and how much work it needs. They usually include our fees and court fees. We explain the likely costs and our fee approach before you decide, and we never promise a particular result.
Do I need a lawyer to go to court?
In some situations you may represent yourself, but court procedure is technical and mistakes can be costly. In some courts and cases, a lawyer’s involvement may be required. Even a short early consultation can show what is needed and what to avoid.
Can I change my lawyer during a case?
Generally, yes. You may change your lawyer, but there are practical steps, such as a formal notice to the court and handing over the file. Changing mid-case can cost time. If you are unhappy, tell your lawyer first. If you are unsure what to do next, you can ask us to explain the options.
Glossary
- Plaintiff
- The person who starts a civil case by filing a claim in court.
- Defendant
- The person a civil claim is brought against, who must reply to it.
- Petition
- A written request to a court asking it to make an order or decide a matter.
- Bail
- Release of an accused person from custody while the case continues, often with conditions.
- Injunction
- A court order telling someone to do or stop doing something, sometimes made urgently.
- Appeal
- A request to a higher court to review and change a decision of a lower court.
- Maintenance
- Financial support paid to a spouse or child. The rules and amounts depend on the case.
- Limitation
- The time limit within which a claim must be brought. Missing it can end the claim.
Sources
Official bodies named for reference. Check the current text of any law with the body itself or with a lawyer.
- Code of Civil Procedure, 1908Sets out how civil cases are conducted. Check the current text.
- Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898Sets out the process for criminal cases. Check the current text.
- Family Courts Act, 1964Covers the family courts. Check the current text.
- Pakistan Code (Ministry of Law and Justice)Official federal law database.
- Supreme Court of PakistanOfficial source for the Court’s judgments and notices.
Questions about your own matter? Send us a message.
General information. Not yet reviewed by a lawyer.
How we write and check this content: editorial policy.
Information on this website is general in nature and is not legal advice.