Pakistan’s Supreme Court launched the landmark Supreme Court Rules, 2025 on Thursday, replacing the 1980 regulations and marking a significant shift towards digital justice and streamlined legal procedures. The new regulations, effective immediately, aim to modernize the apex court’s operations and enhance accessibility in the digital age.
Framed under Article 191 of the Constitution, the 2025 Rules were developed by a committee appointed by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, incorporating input from judges, bar councils, and other stakeholders. The comprehensive reform includes seven parts, 38 orders, and six schedules, featuring approximately 280 amended provisions, 60 new provisions, and the removal of five obsolete rules.
The regulations mandate electronic filing of all petitions and documents, with digital issuance of notices and orders. Video-link hearings are now permitted, and affidavits authenticated via Apostille are acceptable. Digital contact information from involved parties and their legal representation is mandatory, eliminating postal submissions.
Online and in-person access to case files and certified copies is now available. Urgent applications will be listed within 14 days. Revised court fees are introduced, with exemptions for specific petitions like criminal, jail, habeas corpus, and public interest litigation under Article 184(3). State-appointed lawyers for death penalty cases are mandated, and legal aid fees are increased.
Intra-Court Appeals are introduced for Article 184(3) orders and contempt proceedings. Only one review petition is allowed per case, with penalties for frivolous reviews. Updated regulations govern power of attorney, transfer applications, and Constitutional Benches.
Appeals from interlocutory orders will be heard by two judges, and all other appeals by at least three. Advance distribution of certified paper books to all parties is ensured. Provisions are established for recalling ex-parte orders, addressing appeal evasion, and formalizing compromises in compoundable offenses.
The Registrar’s powers are expanded for staff oversight and procedural matters. Filings are permitted in Islamabad or any provincial Branch Registry. Fee structures and allowances will be reviewed triennially. The written test for Advocate-on-Record registration is abolished, requiring only five years’ standing.
Advocates have the option to wear a sherwani or black coat, with gowns optional. Concise statements are no longer required in criminal appeals. Civil appeals may be canceled if cost security isn’t deposited within 30 days (unless ordered otherwise). Respondents can seek dismissal of frivolous or delayed appeals. Procedural errors will be treated as irregularities, not grounds for nullification.
These changes represent a significant advancement in judicial reform, promoting a more efficient, equitable, and open justice system. The complete rules are available on the Supreme Court’s website, as per a statement by Dr. Shahid Hussain Kamboyo, Public Relations Officer of the Supreme Court of Pakistan.