The Supreme Court Rules, 2025 of Pakistan are a comprehensive set of modernized procedural regulations officially replacing the Supreme Court Rules of 1980. They were framed under Article 191 of the Constitution and came into effect on August 6, 2025. These rules aim to bring the judicial process in Pakistan’s highest court in line with contemporary legal, constitutional, and technological standards.

Key details of the Supreme Court Rules, 2025:

• The rules consist of seven Parts, thirty-eight Orders, and six Schedules, with around 280 provisions amended, including 60 new provisions added and some obsolete ones deleted.

• The rules introduce electronic filing of petitions and case documents, digital issuance of notices and orders, video-link hearings, and online access to case records to align with digital advancements.

• Courtroom conduct has been updated: advocates may wear either a sherwani or a short black coat, making gowns optional.

• The timeline for filing criminal and civil appeals has been extended from 30 to 60 days; specific shorter timelines for appeals against registrar objections and review petitions are also defined.

• Provision for summary dismissal of frivolous or delay-motivated appeals exists to promote judicial efficiency.

• Costs for proceedings will be at the court’s discretion, with a minimum threshold; punitive costs may be imposed for frivolous or negligent actions by advocates or parties.

• Constitutional matters involving original jurisdiction, appellate jurisdiction under Article 185(3), or advisory jurisdiction must be heard by a constitutional bench of no fewer than five judges.

• The rules emphasize simplification of procedures, reduction of procedural technicalities, and promotion of timely justice.

• Cases pending under the repealed 1980 Rules continue under those rules unless otherwise directed.

• A committee headed by the Chief Justice and comprising selected Supreme Court Justices drafted these Rules after consultation with judges, bar councils, and legal associations.

• The rules also allow for adjustments by the Chief Justice to address difficulties in implementation.

These rules represent a transformative reform focused on judicial modernization, digital integration, efficiency, and access to justice in Pakistan’s Supreme Court system.