Mehak Chatterjee

Profile description

Imagine you are an Indian citizen living abroad when a police notice in Punjab threatens to arrest you on a serious charge. The fear of being taken into custody far from home can be overwhelming. Mehak Chatterjee, a seasoned advocate practicing before the Punjab and Haryana High Court, specializes in protecting NRIs in exactly these moments. With a deep understanding of criminal law and the procedural safeguards available to non‑resident Indians, Mehak can step in before the police act and secure your freedom.

Anticipatory bail is the most effective weapon when a non‑resident faces the threat of arrest while outside India. Mehak regularly assists clients in filing anticipatory bail applications before the Punjab and Haryana High Court, presenting evidence of innocence, lack of flight risk, and strong community ties abroad. The advocate prepares comprehensive affidavits, gathers supporting documents such as passport copies, overseas employment contracts, and character references, and argues persuasively for bail without surrender. In several recent matters, Mehak has obtained bail orders that allow clients to remain in their current country while the case proceeds, thereby avoiding the disruption of personal and professional life. The lawyer also advises on steps to protect assets and reputation during the interim.

Foreign authorities sometimes seize an NRI’s passport after a complaint is lodged in India, effectively trapping the individual abroad. Mehak can file writ petitions under the appropriate provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure, demanding the immediate release of the passport from the hands of the foreign police or immigration officials. The advocate works closely with consular officers and leverages established relationships with the Punjab and Haryana High Court to demonstrate that the impoundment lacks legal basis. Successful writs have resulted in passports being returned within days, allowing clients to travel freely and resume work. The lawyer also drafts precautionary letters that prevent future seizure attempts.

NRIs may also encounter court orders that bar them from leaving India, such as prohibitory orders issued during a criminal investigation. Mehak has extensive experience challenging such restrictions before the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The advocate reviews the order, identifies procedural defects, and prepares a robust petition highlighting the client’s right to freedom of movement, the absence of any flight risk, and the undue hardship caused by confinement. In numerous cases, the lawyer has secured orders that lift travel bans, enabling clients to return to their overseas postings or attend urgent family matters. The approach combines rigorous legal research with strategic negotiation, often achieving relief without the need for lengthy appeals.

Mehak Chatterjee brings over a decade of practice before the Punjab and Haryana High Court, backed by a LL.B. from a leading university and continuous training in international criminal procedure. The lawyer’s track record includes more than fifty successful bail and writ applications for NRIs across sectors such as technology, finance, and healthcare. Clients appreciate the transparent communication, rapid response times, and the advocate’s ability to demystify complex courtroom tactics. By keeping you informed at every stage, Mehak ensures that you can focus on your career abroad while the legal battle is handled with precision and empathy.

Criminal Law Practice Areas