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Review, Revision, and Appeal – Differences Explained under Pakistani Law
Once a court decision is passed, there are several legal remedies available to an aggrieved party, such as appeal, review, and revision. While all are post-judgment remedies, they are distinct in purpose, scope, and jurisdiction.
This article explains the key differences between these three legal remedies under Pakistani civil and criminal law.
⚖️ 1. Appeal
🔹 Definition:
An appeal is a statutory right allowing a party to challenge the judgment or decree of a lower court in a higher court.
🔹 Purpose:
To request a complete re-hearing of the case — both factual and legal issues.
🔹 Key Features:
Filed as of right (if provided by law)
Both facts and law may be questioned
The entire judgment is under review
New evidence may be allowed in rare cases
🔹 Applicable Law:
Civil matters: Section 96 & 100 CPC
Criminal matters: Sections 410–423 CrPC
🔹 Limitation:
30 to 90 days, depending on the forum and type of case
⚖️ 2. Review
🔹 Definition:
A review petition is filed before the same court that delivered the judgment, asking it to reconsider its decision.
🔹 Purpose:
To correct an error apparent on the face of the record, or when new evidence becomes available that could not be produced earlier.
🔹 Key Features:
No rehearing — limited to review of legal error
Same court revisits its own judgment
Not a substitute for appeal
🔹 Applicable Law:
Civil: Section 114 CPC, Order XLVII
Criminal: In limited cases, available through High Court practice
🔹 Grounds for Review:
Discovery of new and important matter or evidence
Error apparent on the face of the record
Any other sufficient reason
🔹 Limitation:
Within 30 days of the judgment/order
⚖️ 3. Revision
🔹 Definition:
A revision petition is filed in a higher court to correct jurisdictional errors or legal irregularities committed by a subordinate court.
🔹 Purpose:
To supervise judicial discipline without disturbing the merits of the entire case unless gross injustice is apparent.
🔹 Key Features:
Discretionary remedy
Typically no new evidence allowed
Only legal questions or jurisdictional errors considered
Can be filed even when no appeal is provided
🔹 Applicable Law:
Civil: Section 115 CPC
Criminal: Section 435–439 CrPC
🔹 When to Use Revision:
When a subordinate court acted without jurisdiction, or
Committed a material irregularity affecting the case
✅ Summary Table
Feature Appeal Review Revision
Filed Before Higher Court Same Court Higher Court
Scope Entire case (facts & law) Only errors in judgment Legal/jurisdictional errors
New Evidence Sometimes allowed Rare Not allowed
Limitation Varies by forum
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal assistance specific to your situation, please consult a qualified lawyer at S.M. Zulkufil Haider & Co.
S.M. ZULKUFIL HAIDER & CO.
www.zulkufilhaiderandco.com