Introduction to Cheque Bounce and Legal Assistance in Bhopal

Cheque bounce cases are among the most common financial offences in India. When a cheque is returned unpaid due to insufficient funds, account closure, or signature mismatch, it leads to criminal liability under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881.

In Bhopal, hundreds of cheque dishonour cases are filed every month before the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC). Having an experienced cheque-bounce lawyer ensures that your legal notice, petition, and court proceedings are handled properly within statutory deadlines.

LSO Legal provides expert assistance in notice drafting, complaint filing, defence representation, and out-of-court settlements — ensuring fast, lawful, and result-oriented solutions.

Why Legal Expertise Matters in Cheque Bounce Cases

Cheque dishonour is not just a banking issue; it’s a criminal offence that can result in imprisonment or fine.
Hiring a professional lawyer in Bhopal helps you:

• Draft and send a valid legal notice within 30 days.

• File a Section 138 complaint in the right court.

• Defend yourself effectively if wrongly accused.

• Negotiate settlement or compounding before conviction.

• Avoid dismissal of case due to procedural lapses.

People Also Read: Advocate for Cheque Dishonour / Bank Cheque Bounce & Legal Notice Cases in Bhopal

Key Provisions of Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act

Under this section, the following conditions must exist for the offence of cheque bounce:

1. The cheque must be issued for a legally enforceable debt or liability.

2. It must be presented within 3 months (validity period).

3. The cheque must be returned unpaid by the bank.

4. A legal notice demanding payment must be sent within 30 days.

5. If the drawer fails to pay within 15 days of receipt, a criminal complaint can be filed within 30 days thereafter.

Step-by-Step Legal Process for Cheque Bounce in Bhopal

1. Cheque Dishonour by Bank

The payee receives a “Cheque Return Memo” stating reasons like insufficient funds or signature mismatch.

2. Drafting and Sending Legal Notice

Your advocate drafts a notice under Section 138 demanding payment within 15 days.
LSO Legal ensures the notice is correctly worded, includes cheque details, and is dispatched through valid channels (registered post / email / WhatsApp with proof).

3. Non-Payment by Drawer

If payment isn’t made within 15 days, the payee gains the right to initiate prosecution.

4. Filing Complaint in Court

Your lawyer files a criminal complaint before the JMFC, Bhopal, attaching:

• Original cheque & return memo

• Copy of legal notice + postal proof

• Proof of debt or transaction

5. Court Proceedings & Evidence

Both sides present statements and evidence. Cross-examination and mediation may follow.

6. Judgment or Settlement

If proven guilty, the accused may face up to 2 years’ imprisonment or fine up to twice the cheque amount.
The case can also be settled or compounded under Section 147 of the NI Act.

People Also Read: Legal Notice for Cheque Bounce – Format and Time Limit

Documents Required to File or Defend a Case

• Original bounced cheque

• Bank return memo

• Copy of legal notice & postal receipt

• Proof of delivery / acknowledgment

• Transaction / loan agreement

• Identity proof of complainant or accused

• Authorization letter (if company case)

Punishment & Consequences under Section 138

Bank Cheque Bounce & Loan Default Cases

Bank-related dishonour (loan EMI, credit card, business cheques) also falls under Section 138.
LSO Legal’s lawyers handle:

• EMI & loan cheque bounces

• Security cheque misuse defence

• Settlement drafting with banks

• Negotiation and withdrawal of cases

How LSO Legal Helps

• 24-Hour Legal Notice Service – Draft & send within statutory period

• Court Filing & Representation – Complete Section 138 procedure

• Bank Dispute Resolution – EMI & loan settlements

• Defence Support – Bail, cross-examination, appeal

• Confidential Handling – Secure documentation & updates

People Also Read: Cheque Bounce Lawyers and Legal Advisors in Bhopal

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Sending notice after 30-day limit

• Missing proof of notice delivery

• Filing without evidence of legal liability

• Ignoring court summons

• Poorly drafted petition or notice

Need a Cheque Bounce Lawyer in Bhopal?

If you’ve received a cheque bounce notice or your cheque has been dishonoured, contact LSO Legal immediately.
Our specialized advocates in Bhopal handle everything — from notice drafting and complaint filing to settlement and defence — ensuring full compliance with Section 138.

Helpline: 0755-4222969 | +91-9171052281
WhatsApp: +91-8109631969
Website: https://lsolegal.com
Email: support@lsolegal.com

Office Address:
Flat No. 205, C1 Block, Swami Vivekanand Parisar, Katara Hills, Bhopal – 462043
Service Area: Pan India

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Cheque Bounce Cases in Bhopal

1. What is the time limit for sending a cheque bounce legal notice?

Within 30 days from the date of bank return memo.

2. What happens if the drawer doesn’t pay within 15 days?

You can file a criminal complaint under Section 138 within 30 days after the 15-day period.

3. Is a cheque bounce case bailable and compoundable?

Yes, it’s bailable and compoundable; both parties may settle any time before conviction.

4. Can a bank cheque bounce case be settled out of court?

Yes, under Section 147, cases can be settled through mutual agreement and withdrawn formally.

5. What is the punishment for cheque dishonour in India?

Imprisonment up to 2 years or fine up to twice the cheque amount, or both.

6. Can I send a legal notice online or by WhatsApp?

Yes. Courts accept email or WhatsApp notice if delivery can be proven with acknowledgment.

7. Which court handles cheque bounce cases in Bhopal?

All cases are heard before the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) courts having jurisdiction where the cheque was presented.