The entire criminal trial process in Pakistan is governed by the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898 (CrPC). The key stages include:
- FIR and Investigation: The process begins with the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 154 CrPC. This is followed by a police investigation.
- Challan Submission: Once the investigation is complete, the police submit a final report or "challan" to the concerned court under Section 173 CrPC.
- Framing of Charges & Trial: The trial commences with the framing of charges against the accused. The procedure varies based on the type of case:
- Sections 225-237: Govern trials conducted before a Court of Session.
- Sections 238-250: Detail the procedure for Warrant Cases (serious offenses).
- Sections 251-259: Detail the procedure for Summons Cases (less serious offenses).
- Judgment: The trial concludes with the delivery of the judgment under Section 366 CrPC, where the court pronounces the accused either guilty or innocent.