Civil Litigation — Blackthorn Law Offices

The Legal Framework

What the Law Says

Civil litigation in India is governed by the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908. The Limitation Act, 1963 imposes strict time limits — missing a limitation deadline permanently extinguishes the right to sue regardless of the merits.

Commercial disputes of specified value are heard by designated Commercial Courts under the Commercial Courts Act, 2015 — these courts follow stricter timelines and have narrower procedural latitude than ordinary civil courts, making professional representation essential from the outset.

Our Services

What We Do

Commercial Disputes — Contract enforcement, breach of contract claims, partnership disputes, shareholder matters in civil courts
Injunctions — Urgent ex-parte injunctions (same-day applications), interim injunctions, attachment before judgement
Recovery Suits — Money recovery, summary suits under Order 37 CPC for expedited decree
Property Disputes — Possession suits, title disputes, specific performance of sale agreements
Appellate Work — First appeals, second appeals, revisions and writ petitions before Delhi High Court
Execution Proceedings — Enforcement of decrees, attachment and sale of judgement-debtor's property
Mediation — Pre-litigation settlement negotiation and formal mediation representation

Transparency

Fee Guide

Blackthorn operates on a transparent, upfront fee structure. Every engagement begins with a clear fee estimate — no surprises, no hidden charges. The ranges below are indicative; your specific matter will be quoted precisely after the initial consultation.

Service	Indicative Fee Range
Initial Case Assessment	₹3,000 – ₹8,000
Plaint / Written Statement Drafting	₹15,000 – ₹50,000
Injunction Application (urgent)	₹20,000 – ₹60,000
Per Hearing — District Court	₹3,000 – ₹8,000
Per Hearing — Delhi High Court	₹8,000 – ₹25,000
Full Trial Retainer	₹60,000 – ₹3,00,000 p.a.
Appeal — Delhi High Court	₹40,000 – ₹1,50,000

* All fees are exclusive of applicable GST. Court filing fees, stamp duty and other statutory charges are billed at actuals.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a civil suit take in Delhi?+

Realistically, a contested civil suit in Delhi District Courts takes 5–8 years to final judgement. In Delhi High Court (original side), commercial suits take 3–6 years. This is why interim relief — injunctions and stays — is critical to protecting your position while the main suit progresses. Mediation often produces faster, cheaper results and Blackthorn always advises on commercial reality before recommending full litigation.

Can I get an injunction the same day I file?+

Yes, in urgent cases. An ex-parte ad-interim injunction can be sought on the day of filing, without notice to the other side. Courts grant these where there is a prima facie case, balance of convenience in the applicant's favour, and irreparable harm if refused. Speed in filing is critical — delay weakens urgency arguments.

My contractor abandoned the project and disappeared with my advance. What can I do?+

You have several options: (1) Termination of the contract for breach; (2) Recovery of advance through a money recovery suit or arbitration (if there is an arbitration clause); (3) Specific performance if the work is unique; (4) Consequential loss claims. If the contractor has disappeared with your money, a criminal complaint for cheating under the BNS is also an option that often forces faster resolution.

What is a summary suit and how is it faster?+

A summary suit under Order 37 CPC is available for claims based on written contracts and negotiable instruments. The defendant can only defend if the court grants leave — requiring a real, triable issue. Summary suits can reach decree stage in 6–18 months, significantly faster than ordinary suits. They are particularly effective for straightforward debt recovery.

Civil Litigation — Commercial Disputes & Recovery

What the Law Says

What We Do

Fee Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Practice Areas