Constitutional litigation is a distinct discipline requiring a different kind of preparation from ordinary civil work, and the firm has practised it since its founding. We bring and defend petitions challenging executive and regulatory action, and act in service matters for public servants.
The writ jurisdiction is often the fastest effective remedy against an unlawful administrative decision — a cancelled licence, an arbitrary assessment, a transfer or dismissal made without authority. It is also frequently misused, and we will say plainly when a matter does not belong in the constitutional jurisdiction at all.
What we do
- Constitutional petitions under Article 199 of the Constitution
- Petitions under Article 184(3) in matters of public importance
- Judicial review of administrative and regulatory action
- Service matters: appointment, promotion, transfer, dismissal and pension
- Challenges to notifications, licensing decisions and executive orders
- Fundamental-rights litigation
- Contempt proceedings arising from non-compliance with court orders
- Intra-court appeals and appeals to the Supreme Court
How we work
Matters in this area are handled by senior counsel from first instruction to final order. We give a candid view of the merits at the outset — including where a claim is not worth running — and agree fees before work begins rather than after.
If your matter touches more than one of our practice areas, it will be dealt with by the same team rather than passed between departments.
Common Questions
Constitutional & Writ Petitions: frequently asked
What is a writ petition?
It is a petition to the High Court under Article 199 of the Constitution asking the court to direct a public authority to act lawfully — to do something it is legally obliged to do, or to refrain from acting without lawful authority. It is a remedy against the state and its functionaries, not generally against private parties.
How quickly is a writ petition heard?
Urgent petitions can be moved within days and interim relief obtained at the first hearing where the case warrants it. Final disposal takes considerably longer, and depends on the roster and the nature of the issue.
What are the types of writ petition in Pakistan?
Under Article 199 of the Constitution, a High Court can issue orders in the nature of habeas corpus (production of a detained person), mandamus (compelling a public body to act), prohibition (stopping unlawful action), certiorari (setting aside an unlawful order) and quo warranto (questioning a person's right to hold public office).
When can I file a petition under Article 199?
A constitutional petition lies against public authorities and bodies performing state functions, and generally only where no other adequate remedy is available. It suits challenges to unlawful government action, refusal to decide, and violations of fundamental rights. It is not a substitute for an appeal that the law already provides.
Is there a time limit for filing a writ petition?
No fixed limitation period applies, but unexplained delay, known as laches, can lead a High Court to refuse relief. Petitions should be filed promptly after the order or action being challenged, and any delay should be explained in the petition itself.
Enquiries
Discuss a constitutional & writ petitions matter.
An initial consultation carries no obligation, and we will tell you plainly whether the firm is the right one for the matter.