Criminal Lawyer India

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860 from 1 July 2024. Key differences:

• Section numbers changed: Most sections are renumbered (e.g., IPC 302 = Murder → BNS 101).
• New offences added: Organised crime, terrorism, and digital fraud are now codified in BNS.
• Sedition removed: IPC Section 124A (sedition) is replaced by a narrower provision in BNS 152.
• Sentence changes: Community service introduced as a punishment for minor offences.

Cases registered before 1 July 2024 continue under IPC; new FIRs are under BNS.

Yes. An FIR can be quashed by a High Court under Section 528 BNSS (formerly Section 482 CrPC) which preserves the inherent powers of the High Court. Grounds for quashing include:

• The FIR does not disclose a cognizable offence
• The dispute is purely civil in nature and has been settled
• The FIR is filed with mala fide intent (to harass, extort, or settle a personal score)
• All parties in matrimonial disputes have settled and reached a compromise

The Supreme Court in State of Haryana v. Bhajan Lal laid down 7 categories of cases where FIRs can be quashed — this is still valid under BNSS.

When choosing a criminal lawyer, look for:

• Bar Council registration: Verify the advocate is enrolled with the relevant State Bar Council or Bar Council of India.
• Court experience: Choose a lawyer who regularly appears in the court where your case will be heard (District Court, High Court, or Supreme Court).
• Specialisation: Different criminal lawyers specialise in bail, white-collar crime, matrimonial offences (498A), NDPS, or POCSO. Match specialisation to your case.
• Transparent fees: A good lawyer will give you a clear fee structure upfront.
• References: Ask for past case outcomes in similar matters.