By: Luqman Ahmad Khan
Despite constitutional guarantees of equal justice for all, Pakistan’s legal system continues to fail its poorest citizens, who face years-long delays, unaffordable legal fees, and systemic discrimination. Legal experts, rights activists, and affected individuals say the country’s judicial system, burdened with backlogs and riddled with inefficiencies, disproportionately denies justice to the marginalized and impoverished.
Across Pakistan, courts are grappling with massive case backlogs. Many cases have remained unresolved for decades due to an overburdened judiciary, a shortage of judges, and outdated case management systems. This backlog is especially acute in rural and underdeveloped areas, where judicial resources are scarce. For the poor, this means enduring prolonged legal limbo in matters of land disputes, inheritance claims, and criminal cases—often without closure or relief.
“The courts are overwhelmed. There simply aren’t enough judges or clerical staff to process the volume of cases coming in, particularly in districts that are already underserved,” said a senior legal officer in Lahore, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Compounding the issue are the procedural complexities rooted in Pakistan’s colonial-era legal framework. The system is often too bureaucratic and inaccessible for individuals with limited education. Lengthy court hearings, repeated adjournments, and complex documentation discourage poor litigants from pursuing justice. Many abandon their cases midway, lacking the legal knowledge or financial means to continue.
Legal experts also point to the economic burden of seeking justice as a major barrier. Court fees, lawyer’s charges, and travel costs place litigation far beyond the reach of most impoverished Pakistanis. As a result, many settle disputes informally or under coercion—often at a loss—further reinforcing inequality.
“Justice has become a commodity only the wealthy can afford,” said Advocate Yasmeen Arif, a Karachi-based lawyer who works on pro bono legal aid. “The poor not only face systemic hurdles but also don’t know their rights due to the lack of legal literacy.”
Corruption and bias within judicial institutions remain another major challenge. Reports of bribery, favoritism, and influence-peddling—especially in cases involving land or criminal charges—are widespread. Those without connections or money are left disadvantaged in a system where outcomes can be swayed by personal influence rather than legal merit.
Discrimination based on religion, caste, or socio-economic status adds yet another layer of injustice. Marginalized communities often face biased treatment at the hands of legal authorities, delaying or denying justice altogether.
Further undermining judicial integrity is political interference. In numerous instances, politicians and influential elites have used their power to delay proceedings or escape accountability. High-profile cases involving powerful figures are frequently prolonged, while cases concerning ordinary citizens remain unresolved for years.
These systemic failings have led to a deep erosion of public trust in the judiciary. Victims of crime, families entangled in inheritance disputes, or individuals seeking land titles are often forced into years of waiting. In rural areas especially, unresolved legal matters leave communities trapped in cycles of poverty, insecurity, and exclusion.
“People have stopped believing in the courts. They don’t think justice will ever come,” said Zahoor Ahmed, a resident of a village near Multan who has been fighting a land case for over 11 years.
Reform, experts argue, is the only way forward. Strengthening judicial infrastructure—by appointing more judges, digitizing case management, and establishing fast-track courts for land, family, and petty criminal matters—could help reduce delays. Simplifying court procedures and promoting alternatives like mediation and arbitration may also help ease the burden on the judiciary.
Legal aid and awareness programs are considered essential to bridging the justice gap. Expanding legal aid services and launching legal literacy campaigns, particularly in rural and underserved areas, would help empower the poor to claim their rights. Meanwhile, robust anti-corruption efforts and judicial accountability mechanisms are seen as critical to restoring public faith.
Judicial independence must also be protected, analysts say. Transparent appointments and institutional checks can help insulate courts from political pressure, ensuring they remain impartial and responsive to all citizens.
Without urgent and comprehensive reforms, however, the current system threatens to further marginalize the vulnerable and undermine the rule of law in Pakistan.
“Justice delayed is justice denied isn’t just a saying—it’s a lived reality for millions,” Advocate Arif said. “Unless the government commits to real reform, justice will remain a luxury that the poor simply cannot afford.”