Domestic Violence & Protection Orders

Domestic violence in Pakistan is addressed through a combination of specialized legislation and criminal law provisions. The Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act — enacted at the federal level and supplemented by provincial legislation in Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan — provides a comprehensive framework for protection orders, emergency relief, and support services for victims. Our Domestic Violence & Protection Orders practice offers immediate, trauma-informed legal assistance to survivors of physical, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse within domestic relationships, representing them before Family Courts, District Courts, and criminal courts.

The domestic violence legal framework in Pakistan defines violence broadly, encompassing physical assault, sexual abuse, psychological harassment, economic coercion, and stalking. Protection officers appointed under the Act facilitate victims' access to courts and support services. Upon application, courts may issue protection orders restraining the perpetrator from committing further violence, residence orders allowing the victim to remain in the shared household, and compensation orders for medical expenses and losses. Breach of a protection order is a criminal offense triable by a magistrate, carrying penalties of imprisonment and fines.

Beyond the Domestic Violence Act, survivors may seek remedies under the Pakistan Penal Code 1860, which criminalizes assault, hurt, criminal force, and wrongful restraint. The Qisas and Diyat Ordinance 1990 also applies in cases of domestic violence resulting in physical injury, providing for both penal consequences and monetary compensation. We coordinate with police, protection officers, medical professionals, and support organizations to build comprehensive cases for our clients. Our approach prioritizes the safety, dignity, and autonomy of the survivor at every stage of the legal process.