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Dispute Resolution

Cheque Bounce Lawyers in Chennai

Advice on dishonoured cheques: statutory demand notices, complaints and defence under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 before Chennai courts.

When a cheque is returned unpaid, the payee may have both civil and criminal remedies. LexNova Legal Associates advises payees on demand notices and complaints, and advises drawers who have received notices or summons.

Strict time limits run from the date of dishonour and from the date of the notice, so the bank return memo should be reviewed promptly.

What is cheque bounce cases?

Dishonour of a cheque issued for a legally enforceable debt can give rise to a complaint under the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, once a statutory demand notice has been sent and payment has not been made within the time allowed. A civil suit for recovery may also be available.

When you may need this service

  • A payee holding a cheque returned unpaid by the bank
  • A business recovering dues paid by cheque
  • A drawer who has received a demand notice
  • An accused person who has received summons in a cheque case

How LexNova Legal Associates can assist

Demand notice

We draft and send the statutory notice within the applicable time.

Complaint or defence

We prepare the complaint, or review the defence available to the drawer.

Settlement

We advise on negotiated settlement and compounding where the parties agree.

Typical process

  1. Step 1: Consultation

    We listen to the facts, read the documents or notices you have received and identify the stage the matter has reached.

  2. Step 2: Assessment

    We explain the options available, the forum involved, relevant time limits and the likely steps, without promising an outcome.

  3. Step 3: Action

    We prepare the reply, application, petition or pleading and file or serve it within the applicable time.

  4. Step 4: Representation

    We appear before the court, tribunal or authority and keep you informed of each hearing and next step.

Documents and information commonly required

  • Original cheque
  • Bank return memo
  • Underlying agreement, invoice or loan document
  • Copy of demand notice and postal proof
  • Correspondence between the parties

Key legal considerations

  • Time limits for the notice and complaint are strict.
  • The cheque must relate to a legally enforceable debt or liability.
  • Jurisdiction depends on statutory rules about where the complaint may be filed.

Common issues and risks

Late notice

A notice sent outside the statutory period can defeat the complaint.

Missing documents

Without the original cheque and return memo, proving the case is difficult.

Legal services for clients across Chennai

Cheque dishonour complaints arising in Chennai are filed before the jurisdictional magistrate courts in the city.

Frequently asked questions

How soon must I act after a cheque bounces?
The demand notice must be sent within the period fixed by law from the date you receive the bank's return memo. Seek advice immediately.
Can I file a civil suit as well?
A civil recovery suit may be available alongside the criminal remedy, depending on the facts.
Can a cheque bounce case be settled?
These offences are compoundable, and settlement is common, subject to the court's procedure.

Information on this page is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Every matter turns on its own facts; please speak to a lawyer before acting.

Discuss your cheque bounce cases requirement

Tell us what you are dealing with and the deadline you are working to. We will set out the options, the likely steps and the cost before any work begins.

Speak with our team about your matter.

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No. 1 Karaneeswarar Koil Street, Saidapet, Chennai 600015
Online
lexnovalegalassociates.com