Received an FIR? Here's What to Do in the First 48 Hours

Finding out you've been named in a First Information Report (FIR) is unsettling, and it's easy to either panic or do nothing — both make things harder later. Here's a practical, level-headed sequence for the first two days.

Get a copy of the FIR

You are entitled to a copy of the FIR filed against you. Most FIRs are also uploaded to the Tamil Nadu Police website within 24 hours of registration, so this is usually the fastest way to get the exact wording of the allegations — which matters, because your defense strategy depends heavily on what's actually alleged versus what you've heard secondhand.

Do not ignore a police summons

Skipping a summons doesn't make the matter go away — it usually escalates it. If you're called in for questioning, it's worth having a lawyer review the notice and, where appropriate, be present or reachable during the process.

Understand whether the offense is bailable

Whether the alleged offense is bailable or non-bailable changes what happens next significantly. For non-bailable offenses, anticipatory bail — filed before an arrest happens — is often the most important early step, and timing matters.

• Preserve any evidence that supports your side (messages, call records, CCTV timing, witnesses)
• Avoid discussing the case details publicly or on social media
• Don't contact the complainant directly, even to 'clear things up'
• Get legal advice before making any statement to the police

The single biggest mistake people make is waiting too long to involve a lawyer, either out of hope the matter will resolve itself or out of not wanting to 'make it a bigger deal.' Early advice — even a short consultation — usually costs far less than the options that remain once a case has already progressed.