NRI › Handling a case from abroad
Have a case in India but I live abroad
What usually matters in this situation, and the papers to keep ready before you meet an advocate or free legal aid (call 15100).
Make my own list — free, 2 minutesYour situation
- Are you bringing the case or responding to one? I want to file a case
Papers to gather
- Signed vakalatnama for your advocate (executed abroad as required)
Your advocate can't appear without it. Where: Advocate sends; sign as instructed, often with consular/notary attestation. - Proof of residence and job abroad; travel constraints
Supports exemption from appearance / video evidence. Where: Employer letter, visa, residence permit. - All documents about the underlying dispute
Your advocate needs them before the first date. Where: Your records. - Passport and OCI copies
Needed for affidavits and bail papers. Where: Your documents.
You may also need, depending on your answers
- The notice/summons/warrant and its envelope or email, with date received — Dates run from receipt.
- Case status printout (eCourts) with next date — Avoids missing dates.
- Specific PoA for a trusted person to manage the case (civil matters) — Lets the case move while you're abroad.
What the law says
Many courts allow exemption from personal appearance and evidence by video conference. Criminal cases may need personal appearance at certain stages. A power-of-attorney holder can file and manage civil cases but cannot testify to facts only you know.
General information, not legal advice.
Saboot will also ask
- What kind of matter?
- What do you have right now?
- Do you have an advocate in India?
Similar situations
Sources
The full guide: I live abroad and have a case, notice or summons in India · All situations