Dowry Case

What is a Dowry Case?

Dowry refers to any property, valuable security, or cash given by the bride’s family to the groom or his family before, during, or after marriage, as a condition of the marriage.

A dowry case involves criminal proceedings initiated against the husband or his relatives for:

• Demanding dowry
• Harassment or cruelty related to dowry
• Physical, emotional, or economic abuse
• Death of a woman under suspicious circumstances within 7 years of marriage

What Constitutes Cruelty Under Section 498A IPC?

• Physical or mental harassment
• Demanding money, property, or valuables
• Threatening or isolating the woman
• Forcing her to commit suicide or face violence

Punishment for Dowry Offences

• Section 498A IPC: Up to 3 years of imprisonment + fine
• Section 304B IPC: Minimum 7 years to life imprisonment
• Dowry Prohibition Act:
  • Giving/taking dowry: Up to 5 years imprisonment + ₹15,000 or the amount of dowry, whichever is more

Common Issues Related to Dowry Cases

• Genuine cases of harassment and violence
• False or exaggerated allegations due to marital discord
• Misuse of 498A as a tool for vengeance
• Involvement of distant relatives or aged parents unnecessarily

For Women Facing Dowry Harassment

1. Legal Consultation & Case Assessment

• Confidential discussion about the facts, timeline, and evidence
• Assessment of appropriate legal remedy (498A, DV Act, etc.)

2. Drafting and Filing of Complaint

• Draft police complaint or FIR under Section 498A IPC
• File Domestic Violence petition, Maintenance petition (CrPC 125), or Divorce if necessary

3. Representation in Criminal and Family Courts

• Appear in Magistrate Court or Family Court
• Assist in seeking protection, maintenance, and custody (if children involved)

4. Filing for Dowry Prohibition Proceedings

• Assist in filing complaint under Dowry Prohibition Act
• Coordinate with Women’s Cell, CAW Cell, or State Commission for Women

5. Evidence Collection Support

• Help gather proof: WhatsApp chats, bank transfers, photos, medical records, witness statements

For Clients Falsely Accused Under 498A

1. Immediate Legal Protection

• Apply for anticipatory bail or regular bail
• Prevent arrest or custody of innocent family members

2. FIR Review and Quashing

• File a petition under Section 482 CrPC to quash false FIR
• Challenge vague or fabricated allegations

3. Legal Representation and Trial Strategy

• Cross-examination of witnesses
• Gather evidence proving no demand of dowry or cruelty

4. Countersuits (if necessary)

• File for defamation, perjury, or custody of children
• Apply for Restitution of Conjugal Rights or Divorce

5. Mediation and Settlements

• Represent in mediation or reconciliation proceedings
• Draft mutual consent divorce or settlement agreements if both parties agree

Why Choose Lawtech for Dowry Cases?

• Objective, balanced handling of sensitive family matters
• Strong team of criminal and family law advocates
• Focus on early resolution and damage control
• Digital updates, transparent communication, and case tracking
• Representation in CAW Cells, Family Courts, and High Courts

Who Can Approach Lawtech?

• Women facing cruelty or dowry pressure
• Husbands and family members wrongly implicated
• Parents of victims or accused individuals
• NRI clients needing local representation and documentation