Barnali Shetty

Profile description

If your passport has been impounded while you are abroad and you are an NRI facing legal complications, the situation can quickly become distressing. Barnali Shetty focuses on NRI passport impounding writ petitions and can guide you through the process before the Punjab and Haryana High Court and the Supreme Court of India.

Barnali Shetty’s expertise lies in challenging the legality of passport seizures that affect non‑resident Indians. The lawyer examines the statutory basis of the impoundment, checks whether due process was observed, and assesses any misuse of power by authorities. By filing a writ petition, the lawyer asks the court to review the order, restore the passport, and protect the client’s right to travel. This specialized work requires a precise understanding of both criminal procedure and immigration law, areas where the lawyer has extensive experience.

The lawyer is adept at operating in Chandigarh’s High Court as well as in the apex court when the matter warrants a broader legal precedent. Barnali Shetty drafts compelling petitions that cite relevant provisions, attach supporting documents such as travel itineraries and proof of residence abroad, and argue the disproportionate impact of the impoundment on the client’s personal and professional life. In the High Court, the lawyer presents oral arguments that emphasize the urgency of the relief sought. When escalated, the lawyer prepares detailed special leave petitions for the Supreme Court, highlighting any constitutional violations.

Educational credentials include a Master of Laws in International Law, complemented by regular participation in seminars on NRI rights. Over twelve years of practice, the lawyer has successfully reclaimed passports for dozens of clients, preventing loss of employment, family separation, and financial hardship. Clients often remark on the lawyer’s ability to simplify complex legal jargon and to act swiftly under tight deadlines.

The lawyer’s process begins with an immediate intake call to assess the circumstances of the impoundment. Barnali Shetty then gathers all relevant documents, contacts the detaining authority to seek clarification, and prepares a strategic timeline. The lawyer explains each step, from filing the writ to possible outcomes, and keeps the client updated at every stage. The approach is proactive, aiming to secure interim relief while the substantive petition is considered.

Clients who have worked with Barnali Shetty describe a sense of relief once the passport is restored. The lawyer’s thorough preparation and persuasive advocacy often result in the High Court or Supreme Court ordering immediate release of the passport, sometimes with additional directives to prevent future wrongful impoundments. By combining legal rigor with empathetic support, the lawyer strives to safeguard your mobility and peace of mind.

Criminal Law Practice Areas