Obtaining a certified copy of an FIR (First Information Report) is often the first crucial step in any criminal case. Whether you are an accused person, a complainant, or a legal practitioner, having access to the FIR helps you understand the allegations, prepare a defence strategy, and take appropriate legal action.
Therefore, it is important to know how to apply for a certified copy of an FIR and what format should be used. In this guide, we will explain the legal basis, procedure, and provide a ready-to-use draft format for an application seeking a certified copy of an FIR.
What is a Certified Copy of an FIR?
An FIR (First Information Report) is a document registered by the police under Section 154 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (CrPC) when information about a cognizable offence is received.
A certified copy of the FIR is an officially authenticated copy issued either by:
The concerned Police Station, or
The Jurisdictional Court
This certified copy carries official verification and can be used in legal proceedings, bail applications, or court filings.
Why is a Certified Copy of an FIR Important?
Before proceeding with any legal strategy, it is essential to obtain the FIR. This is because the FIR contains the exact allegations, sections of law invoked, and details of the incident.
Moreover, obtaining the FIR allows a person to:
Understand the nature of the allegations
Prepare anticipatory bail or regular bail applications
Verify whether false allegations have been made
Seek quashing of FIR before the High Court
Prepare an effective defense in criminal litigation
Therefore, applying for a certified copy of the FIR is often one of the first procedural steps in criminal cases.
Who Can Apply for a Certified Copy of an FIR?
Generally, the following persons can apply for a certified copy:
The accused person
The complainant or informant
Advocates representing the parties
Any person with a legitimate legal interest
Furthermore, courts have recognised that access to the FIR is essential for ensuring transparency and fairness in criminal investigations.
Where Should the Application Be Filed?
Depending on the circumstances, the application may be filed before:
The Station House Officer (SHO) of the concerned police station, or
The Jurisdictional Magistrate Court
However, if the police refuse to provide the copy, the applicant may approach the court to obtain a certified copy through the court registry.
Essential Details to Include in the Application
Before drafting the application, it is important to incorporate certain essential elements. These include:
Name and address of the applicant
Details of the police station
FIR number and date
Sections of law mentioned in the FIR
Reason for requesting the certified copy
Signature and contact details of the applicant
Including these details ensures that the application is processed efficiently by the authorities.
Sample Draft Format – Application for Certified Copy of FIR
Below is a simple and widely used format for requesting a certified copy of an FIR.
Sample Draft – Application for Certified Copy of FIR
To
The Station House Officer
[Name of Police Station]
[City/District]Subject: Application for Certified Copy of FIR
Respected Sir/Madam,
I respectfully submit that an FIR bearing No. [____] dated [____] has been registered at your police station under Sections [____] of the Indian Penal Code / other applicable laws.
I am a concerned party in the above matter and require a certified copy of the said FIR for legal purposes.
Therefore, I kindly request you to provide a certified copy of the FIR at the earliest convenience.
I shall be grateful for your kind assistance in this regard.
Thanking you.
Yours faithfully,
[Name of Applicant]
[Address]
[Contact Number]
[Signature]Date: [____]
Place: [____]
Drafting Tip
Always verify the FIR number, police station name, and date of registration before submitting the application. Even a minor error may delay the process of obtaining the certified copy.
Index of Legal templates and drafting is here.
Disclaimer
This draft format is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Legal applications should always be tailored according to the specific facts of each case and applicable legal requirements.
Key Contributor :
Mrs. Suprajaa Rajan B.Com., LL.B., LL.M.
+91-9606345150
