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Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) Lawyer
Expert Representation Before All AFT Benches Across India
The Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) is a specialized judicial body established under the Armed Forces Tribunal Act, 2007, to adjudicate disputes and complaints related to service matters of armed forces personnel. Having argued 4,735+ appeals before various AFT benches across India, Wg Cdr Ajit Kakkar brings unparalleled expertise in tribunal procedures.
Unlike regular civil courts, the AFT requires lawyers who understand military law, service rules, and the unique culture of armed forces. Our team’s military background ensures you receive representation from advocates who speak your language and understand your challenges.
Understanding AFT
What is the Armed Forces Tribunal?
The Armed Forces Tribunal was established to provide speedy justice to armed forces personnel.
Jurisdiction Over
- Service matters of Army, Navy, and Air Force personnel
- Appeals against court martial verdicts
- Pension disputes
- Matters relating to conditions of service
- Complaints about service-related grievances
Structure
Principal Bench: New Delhi
Regional Benches: Chandigarh, Lucknow, Jaipur, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Kochi, Guwahati, Srinagar
Our Services
Cases We Handle at AFT
Original Applications (OAs)
- First-time filing of service disputes
- Pension claim rejections
- Promotion denials
- Wrongful termination/discharge
- ACR/APAR disputes
Transfer Applications (TAs)
- Cases transferred from High Courts
- Inter-bench transfers
- Procedural transfers
Appeals
- Appeals against court martial verdicts
- Review of AFT orders
- Transfer petitions to Supreme Court
Pension Matters
- Disability pension claims
- Service pension disputes
- Family pension issues
- OROP arrears claims
- Commutation problems
Service Disputes
- Promotion supersession
- Seniority matters
- Pay and allowances disputes
- Service record corrections
- Medical categorization challenges
Filing Guide
How to File a Case in AFT
Step 1
Exhaust Remedies
Exhaust departmental remedies (statutory complaints, representations) unless exceptional circumstances exist
Step 2
Gather Documents
Impugned order, service records, relevant correspondence, medical documents, ACRs
Step 3
Draft Application
Memo of parties, statement of facts, grounds for relief, prayer clause, supporting affidavits
Step 4
Filing
File at appropriate AFT bench, pay court fees, serve notice on respondents
Step 5
Hearing & Orders
Admission hearing, evidence and arguments, final orders
Limitation Period
Generally, applications must be filed within one year from the date of the impugned order or when the cause of action arose.
Our Expertise
Why Choose Us for AFT Cases
1. Volume of Experience
4,735+ appeals argued before various AFT benches across India. Practice before all AFT benches with extensive precedent knowledge that few lawyers can match.
2. Military Understanding
Wg Cdr Kakkar’s 26 years of IAF service provides deep understanding of service rules, procedures, and military documentation that civilian lawyers simply cannot replicate.
3. Strategic Approach
Thorough case analysis, identification of strongest grounds, and evidence-based advocacy. We don’t just file cases—we build winning strategies.
4. Pan-India Representation
We represent clients before the Principal Bench (New Delhi), all Regional Benches across India, and the Supreme Court for AFT appeals.
5. Track Record
High success rate across all case types: 90%+ in disability pension cases, exceptional results in wrongful termination matters, and consistent wins in promotion disputes.
Legal Framework
Relevant Laws for AFT
Armed Forces Tribunal Act, 2007
Establishes AFT and defines its jurisdiction over service matters
AFT (Procedure) Rules, 2008
Procedural guidelines for filing and conducting cases before AFT
Army Act, 1950
Governing law for Army personnel service matters and discipline
Navy Act, 1957
Governing law for Navy personnel service matters and discipline
Air Force Act, 1950
Governing law for Air Force personnel service matters and discipline
Pension Regulations
Regulations governing disability, service, and family pension disputes
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who can file a case in AFT?
Serving or former members of the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force can file cases in AFT. This includes officers, JCOs, ORs, and in some cases, their family members (for family pension matters).
Q2: What is the limitation period for filing AFT cases?
Generally, applications must be filed within one year from the date of the impugned order. However, the Tribunal may condone delays if sufficient cause is shown.
Q3: Do I need a lawyer for AFT cases?
While you can appear in person, we strongly recommend engaging an experienced military lawyer. AFT procedures are specialized, and proper legal representation significantly improves chances of success.
Q4: How long does an AFT case take?
Typically 6-18 months depending on complexity. The AFT is mandated to decide cases expeditiously. Simple matters may be resolved in 6-9 months, while complex cases may take longer.
Q5: Can AFT orders be appealed?
Yes, AFT orders can be appealed to the Supreme Court of India under Section 31 of the AFT Act. The appeal must be filed within 60 days.
Q6: Which AFT bench should I file my case in?
Generally, at the bench in whose jurisdiction the cause of action arose, OR where the applicant ordinarily resides. We can help determine the appropriate bench for your case.
Q7: What are the fees for filing in AFT?
Court fees vary based on the type of application. OAs typically require nominal fees. Your lawyer will advise on exact amounts and exemptions if applicable.
Nationwide Coverage
AFT Bench Locations
PRINCIPAL BENCH
New Delhi
All-India + Delhi NCR
REGIONAL
Chandigarh
Punjab, Haryana, HP, J&K
REGIONAL
Lucknow
UP, Uttarakhand
REGIONAL
Jaipur
Rajasthan
REGIONAL
Mumbai
Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa
REGIONAL
Chennai
TN, Kerala, AP, Telangana
REGIONAL
Kolkata
West Bengal, NE (partial)
REGIONAL
Kochi
Kerala
REGIONAL
Guwahati
Northeast States
REGIONAL
Srinagar
J&K (seasonal)
Need Help with an AFT Case?
Whether you’re filing a fresh application or appealing an existing order, our team is ready to help.
With 4,735+ appeals argued across all AFT benches, you’re in experienced hands.
Free Initial Consultation Available