The criminal case procedure in Pakistan can feel confusing. However, understanding the exact steps makes it much easier. This blog explains the entire process in simple English, and it will be super easy to understand.
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🔍 What is the Criminal Case Procedure in Pakistan?
The criminal case procedure in Pakistan refers to the legal steps followed after a crime is reported. These steps are outlined in the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), 1898.
📝 Step-by-Step Process of Criminal Case Procedure in Pakistan
Let’s break it down:
1️⃣ Filing of FIR (First Information Report)
The first step in the criminal case procedure in Pakistan is the FIR.
Victim or witness submits this at the police station.
It must include:
Time and date of the incident
Description of the crime
Name(s) of the accused, if known
🚨 Important: Without an FIR, police cannot begin an investigation.
2️⃣ Police Investigation and Collection of Evidence
After the FIR, the police begin investigation.
This includes:
Visiting the crime scene
Collecting evidence
Interviewing witnesses
Arresting suspects if necessary
🔍 The goal is to build a strong case before trial.
📌 Role of Investigating Officer in Criminal Case Procedure in Pakistan
The investigating officer plays a critical role:
Collects evidence like witness statements and forensic data.
Submits a complete challan to the court.
Coordinates with prosecution to strengthen the case.
This makes them essential in the criminal case procedure in Pakistan.
3️⃣ Arrest and Police Custody
If police find strong evidence, they arrest the accused.
The accused must be presented before a magistrate within 24 hours.
Magistrate decides if further custody is needed.
4️⃣ Judicial Custody and Challan (Charge Sheet)
If custody is extended, accused is sent to judicial lockup.
Police prepare a challan (charge sheet) and submit to court.
📌 Difference Between Cognizable and Non-Cognizable Offenses
This impacts how police proceed:
Cognizable Offense: Police can arrest without court approval.
Non-Cognizable Offense: Court’s permission is needed.
Examples:
Cognizable: Murder, kidnapping
Non-Cognizable: Defamation, hurt
This classification changes the flow of the criminal case procedure in Pakistan.
5️⃣ Court Takes Cognizance
The trial court accepts the charge sheet.
It then issues summons or warrants to accused.
A case is officially registered in court.
6️⃣ Framing of Charges
The court formally frames charges against the accused.
The accused is asked to plead:
Guilty → punishment
Not guilty → trial begins
7️⃣ Trial Begins: Evidence and Witnesses
Both sides present evidence:
Prosecution presents witnesses and documents.
Defense cross-examines them.
Court evaluates facts during this stage.
📌 Trial Phases in Criminal Case Procedure in Pakistan
Every trial has multiple stages:
Charge framing by court
Prosecution presents evidence
Cross-examination of witnesses
Defense evidence submission
Final arguments from both sides
➡️ These steps are crucial in the criminal case procedure in Pakistan.
8️⃣ Statement of Accused Under Section 342 CrPC
Court records the statement of accused.
They can explain their version of events.
No oath is taken at this stage.
9️⃣ Defense Evidence
Accused may choose to present their own witnesses.
This is not mandatory.
🔟 Final Arguments and Judgment
Lawyers from both sides give final arguments.
Then court announces verdict:
Conviction → punishment according to law.
Acquittal → accused is set free.
📌 Appeal Process in Criminal Case Procedure in Pakistan
If the accused is not satisfied with the verdict, they can file an appeal.
Appeal must be filed within the legal time limit.
It goes to a higher court, depending on the level of the original decision.
Appeals must be based on legal errors or misjudgment.
➡️ This step ensures fairness and justice in the criminal case procedure in Pakistan.
⚖️ Types of Criminal Courts in Pakistan
Sessions Court → For serious crimes (e.g. murder)
Magistrate Court → For minor crimes (e.g. theft)
Anti-Terrorism Court → For terrorism-related offenses
Special Courts → NAB, FIA, Cybercrime, etc.
📜 Key Laws in the Criminal Case Procedure in Pakistan
Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), 1898
Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), 1860
Qanun-e-Shahadat Order, 1984 (Law of Evidence)
🕰️ Timeframe of a Criminal Case in Pakistan
Investigation: 14 to 90 days
Trial: 6 months to several years (depending on court and case)
Appeals: May take several additional years
🧠 Tips to Handle a Criminal Case in Pakistan
Hire a competent criminal lawyer.
Do not hide facts from your counsel.
Keep record of FIR, bail orders, and notices.
Attend all hearings regularly.
Follow court instructions carefully.
💡 Why Understanding the Criminal Case Procedure in Pakistan Matters
🔹 Muhammad Arslan Abbas – Digital Marketer & AI Enthusiast
I’m Muhammad Arslan Abbas, a passionate and self-driven digital marketer with a growing edge in Artificial Intelligence and Python programming.
Currently enrolled in the Digital Marketing course at Punjab University’s e-Rozgaar program, I specialize in crafting powerful online strategies, writing SEO-optimized content, and helping brands grow through organic search and smart content creation.
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Beyond digital marketing, I’m also learning to build AI tools using Python. My aim is to blend legal tech and AI to simplify complex tasks — like generating legal documents automatically.
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I believe that the future belongs to those who combine creativity with technology. That’s why I’m constantly exploring how AI, automation, and smart marketing can work together to build useful tools, drive traffic, and create impact.
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