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Procedure for Filing a Special Leave Petition in Supreme Court (Criminal)

Procedure for Filing a Special Leave Petition in Supreme Court (Criminal)

  • 06 Mar 2025

Procedure for Filing a Special Leave Petition in Supreme Court (Criminal)

  1. Drafting the Petition: The petition should contain a clear statement of facts, grounds for seeking leave, and legal arguments.
  2. Documents Required:
    • Certified copy of High Court Judgment.
    • High Court paper book.
    • Copy of FIR.
    • Copy of Evidences.
    • Trial Court judgment.
    • Reasons for delay, if any, in approaching the Hon'ble Supreme Court.
    • Certificate of imprisonment.
    • Application for legal services.
    • Affidavit for legal services.
    • Vakalatnama.
    • English translation of the documents, which are in vernacular.
    • Affidavit in support of SLP.
  3. Filing the Petition:
    • The petition is filed in the Supreme Court Registry.
    • It should be filed within 90 days from the date of the High Court’s judgment.
  4. Preliminary Hearing:
    • The Supreme Court examines the petition to determine whether leave should be granted.
    • If leave is granted, the case proceeds to a full hearing.
  5. Final Decision:
    • The Supreme Court may grant relief, dismiss the petition, or remand the case for fresh consideration.

Time Limit for Filing SLP (Criminal)

  • The petitioner must file the SLP within 90 days from the date of the judgment.
  • In case of a refusal of a certificate of appeal by the High Court, the SLP must be filed within 60 days.

Important Case Laws on SLP (Criminal)

  1. Pritam Singh v. State (1950): Established the principle that the Supreme Court exercises discretion in granting special leave in rare and exceptional cases.
  2. Babu v. State of UP (1965): Highlighted the importance of SLP in cases of miscarriage of justice.
  3. K.K. Velusamy v. N. Palanisamy (2011): Explained when an SLP should be entertained by the Supreme Court.

The Special Leave Petition (Criminal) serves as a crucial legal mechanism for individuals seeking justice beyond the appellate jurisdiction of High Courts. While the Supreme Court exercises its discretion in granting SLPs, this extraordinary remedy ensures that fundamental rights are protected, legal errors are rectified, and justice prevails in criminal matters.

If you are considering filing an SLP (Criminal), it is advisable to consult an experienced Supreme Court advocate to navigate the complex legal procedures effectively.