The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam replaced the Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure and Indian Evidence Act from 1 July 2024. Which law applies can depend on when the alleged offence took place and when proceedings began.
A criminal matter moves quickly at the start. Decisions taken around a police notice, an arrest or a bail hearing can have lasting consequences, so early advice is important.
What this covers
- Regular and anticipatory bail
- Response to police notices
- Registration of FIRs and Magistrate directions
- Quashing petitions
- Trial defence and complainant representation
- Criminal appeals and revisions
- Economic offences
- Offences relating to marriage and family
Principal laws
| Law | Relevance |
|---|---|
| Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS) | Defines offences and punishments. |
| Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS) | Investigation, arrest, bail, trial and appeal. |
| Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 (BSA) | Rules of evidence, including electronic records. |
Where it is heard
Magistrate and Sessions Courts in each district, the Metropolitan courts at Hyderabad, and the High Court of the State concerned.
Usual steps
- Understand the allegation and the stage of the case
- Obtain the FIR, notice or order
- Decide the immediate remedy, such as bail or a petition
- Represent the client during proceedings
- Trial, judgment and any appeal
Documents that are often relevant
- FIR or complaint copy
- Any police notice or summons
- Court orders passed so far
- Documents and messages relevant to the allegation
Please keep these safe, but do not send confidential documents until we have confirmed that we will act for you.
Time limits and key points
| Item | Position |
|---|---|
| Anticipatory bail | BNSS Section 482. Apply before arrest |
| Regular bail | BNSS Sections 480 and 483 |
| High Court's inherent powers, including quashing | BNSS Section 528 |
| Appeals and revisions | Limits vary by forum and order. Check immediately |
Common questions
What should I do if I receive a police notice?
Read it carefully, keep a copy, and take legal advice promptly. A notice under BNSS Section 35(3) requires appearance on the stated terms, and complying with it can affect whether arrest is needed.
Can an FIR be quashed?
The High Court may quash an FIR under BNSS Section 528 in appropriate cases. This power is used with care and depends on the facts, including whether the allegations disclose an offence or whether the parties have genuinely settled.
This is general information, not legal advice. The law may have changed, and the answer may differ on your facts.