Important Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only. KanoonPilot is NOT a law firm. This is NOT legal advice. If you've received an FIR, consult a qualified criminal lawyer immediately.
What is an FIR?
An FIR (First Information Report) is the first document police create when they receive information about a cognizable offence. Under the new Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023 — which replaced the old CrPC — police are legally required to register an FIR for any cognizable offence (Section 173, BNSS).
Receiving an FIR copy doesn't mean you're guilty. It means someone has filed a complaint and the police are investigating.
The First 24 Hours: Step-by-Step
Don't Panic — Read the FIR Carefully
Identify the FIR number, police station, date, the sections cited, the complainant's name, and the specific allegations. If it's in legal jargon you can't understand, upload it to KanoonPilot for a plain-language explanation.
Identify the Sections Cited
Check whether the offence is bailable or non-bailable. This determines your immediate legal strategy. Use KanoonPilot's Legal Glossary or Old vs New Law tool to understand the sections.
Contact a Criminal Lawyer — Immediately
This is the single most important step. A lawyer can advise on anticipatory bail, police response, and what to say during investigation. If you can't afford a lawyer, you have a right to free legal aid (Section 12, Legal Services Authorities Act).
Preserve Evidence
Keep copies of the FIR, any related documents, messages, receipts, photos, or CCTV footage that support your version. Do not delete any communications. Make digital backups.
Consider Anticipatory Bail (If Non-Bailable)
If the FIR involves non-bailable sections, your lawyer may advise filing for anticipatory bail under Section 482, BNSS (formerly Section 438, CrPC). This should ideally be filed within 24-72 hours.
Do NOT Make Statements Without a Lawyer
Under Section 172, BNSS, you have the right to a lawyer during questioning. Police statements (Section 180, BNSS) are generally not admissible in court, but magistrate confessions (Section 183, BNSS) are. Be extremely careful about what you sign.
Your Key Rights After an FIR
Critical Deadlines
| Action | Timeline | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Get a lawyer | Immediately | — |
| Anticipatory bail application | 24–72 hours | Section 482, BNSS |
| Police must produce arrested person before Magistrate | 24 hours | Article 22, Constitution |
| Police investigation completion (general) | 60–90 days | Section 187, BNSS |
| Default bail (if charge sheet not filed) | 60/90 days | Section 187(2), BNSS |
Where to Go for Help
Route Finder
Find the right complaint path
Emergency Help
Helplines & urgent resources
Know Your Rights
Constitutional & legal rights
Upload Your FIR
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Pro Tip
Upload your FIR to KanoonPilot before your lawyer meeting. You'll understand the sections, deadlines, and allegations — so you can ask better questions and save consultation time.