Tribe Verified· 10 years of legal practice, Delhi.

Know Your Rights: Essential Legal Explainers

byKanika BhardwajOnline consultations available; Represents clients across India; Office in Greater Kailash I, New DelhiStarts from₹15,000 Per Complaint/DraftView full gallery

Law isn't just for lawyers. I break down complex legal updates and procedures into clear, actionable advice so you know exactly how to protect yourself and your interests.

India's old criminal laws (IPC, CrPC) have been replaced. I explain the major changes, including the new mandate for trial courts to deliver judgments within three years.

If you cannot physically appear in a Delhi court, you can appear virtually through the Webex Cisco app. This is a valid appearance and can prevent an adverse order against you.

With the recent NEET issue, a new law, the "Prevention of Unfair Means Act 2024," has been enacted to tackle paper leaks. I explain the punishments, which include up to 5 years in jail and a 10 lakh fine.

The new Section 69 of the BNS covers not just a false promise to marry but also securing physical relations through "deceitful means," like a fake promise of a job or promotion. The punishment can be up to 10 years.

Giving a friendly loan? Protect yourself legally. I explain the importance of a proper loan agreement, an affidavit, and taking a post-dated cheque (PDC) to secure your money.

Using obscene words or performing obscene acts in a public place is a crime under Section 294 of the IPC. I explain the law and the importance of having evidence to prove your case.

Can your employer claim an unjustified amount of money from you? This can amount to extortion, a criminal offense. I explain the rights an employee has in such a situation.

Be very careful when giving a blank cheque. Under Section 139 of the NI Act, the court presumes it was given for a legally enforceable debt. If your blank cheque is lost, file a police complaint immediately.

If the opposing party submits false evidence or a false statement in court, it's a crime called perjury. You can file an application under Section 340 of the CrPC, and if proven, they can face up to 7 years in jail.

About Know Your Rights: Legal Explainers

When giving a friendly loan, never rely on verbal trust alone. Always sign a formal agreement and insist on a post-dated cheque with the specific purpose written on the back. If you only hand over a blank cheque, Section 139 of the Negotiable Instruments Act makes it dangerously easy for the other party to create a legal case against you, as the law presumes a debt exists.

10 years of legal practice, Delhi. — Approved by the tribe

Kanika Bhardwaj

Online consultations available; Represents clients across India; Office in Greater Kailash I, New DelhiStarts from ₹15,000 Per Complaint/Draft

I believe your biggest challenge isn't the legal system itself, but the lack of awareness about how to use it. After a decade in the courts, I am here to give you the clarity you need to handle situations, from false allegations to police interactions, with confidence.