The Supreme Court of Pakistan is the apex judicial body with authority over constitutional, civil, criminal, and public importance cases.
It primarily hears appeals against High Court judgments and addresses violations of fundamental rights under Article 184(3) of the Constitution . Key jurisdictions include:
- Civil Appeals: Against High Court orders under Article 185(2).
- Criminal Appeals: For death sentences or life imprisonment under Article 185(2)(a).
- Constitutional Petitions: For public importance or fundamental rights under Article 184(3) .
Eligibility: Who Can File a Case?
- Individuals: Any citizen or entity directly affected by a High Court decision.
- Advocates-on-Record (AoR): Mandatory for most cases, except for self-represented petitioners .
- Government Bodies: Federal or provincial governments in inter-governmental disputes.
Step-by-Step Filing Process
Step 1: Determine the Case Type
- Civil Cases: File a Civil Petition for Leave to Appeal within 60 days of the High Court’s decision .
- Criminal Cases: Submit a Criminal Petition for Leave to Appeal within 30 days .
- Constitutional Petitions: No time limit for public importance cases .
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
- Original CNIC or authorization for legal representatives.
- Certified copies of lower court judgments.
- Affidavit (Rs. 10–12 fee) and court fee payment receipt .
Step 3: Submit at the Supreme Court
- Physical Filing: Visit the Principal Seat (Islamabad) or Branch Registries (Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta) during office hours (8:30 AM–2:30 PM, Monday–Saturday) .
- E-Filing: As of March 17, 2025, submit a scanned copy via email ([email protected]) or USB alongside a hard copy for prioritized hearings .
Step 4: Pay Court Fees
- Civil Petition: Rs. 250 .
- Review Petition: Half the original fee .
- Certified Copies: Rs. 5 per document .
Step 5: Track Your Case
Use the Supreme Court’s Online Case Status Portal or contact the Registrar’s office .
Key Reforms: E-Filing and Faster Hearings
The 2025 e-filing initiative prioritizes digitally submitted cases, scheduling hearings within 2 weeks . Benefits include:
- Reduced paperwork and transactional costs.
- Enhanced transparency and accessibility.
Role of Advocates-on-Record (AoR)
- Mandatory Representation: AoRs are required for most appeals, except self-filed petitions .
- State-Funded Legal Aid: Available for death penalty cases or court-directed matters .
FAQs:
Can I file a case without a lawyer?
Yes, but complex cases often require an Advocate-on-Record .
What is the fee for a review petition?
Half the original court fee, with a Rs. 10,000 security deposit .
How long does the Supreme Court take to hear a case?
E-filed cases: 2 weeks; others: varies by docket .
Can I appeal a Registrar’s refusal to accept my petition?
Yes, file a Misc. Appeal within 14 days .