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What Is Special Leave Petition? | SLP Meaning, Process & Eligibility

Learn what is Special Leave Petition, SLP meaning, when it can be filed, Supreme Court SLP process, limitation, fees and legal remedies.

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Published 1 September 2026

A Special Leave Petition (SLP) is a way for someone to ask the Supreme Court of India for permission to appeal a decision made by a lower court or tribunal.This is allowed under Article 136 of the Indian Constitution, but it's not automatic.The Supreme Court decides on a case-by-case basis whether it should hear the matter.

In simple terms, an SLP is a request to the Supreme Court to step in and review a decision from a lower court or tribunal.

The Court may agree to hear the case or refuse to do so, depending on the situation.

Article 136 of the Constitution gives the Supreme Court the power to grant special leave to appeal.

This is different from regular appeals, which are allowed under specific laws.So, an SLP doesn't automatically give the right to appeal.You have to ask the Supreme Court for permission first.

An SLP can be filed against a judgment or order from a court or tribunal if certain conditions are met.

These cases can cover a wide range of issues like civil disputes, criminal matters, property issues, family matters, and more.Whether an SLP is the right choice depends on the specifics of the case.

If someone is unhappy with a decision from the High Court, they can go to the Supreme Court through an SLP.

But not every High Court ruling automatically leads to an SLP.The Supreme Court only steps in if it thinks it's necessary.

In criminal cases, SLPs can be used to challenge decisions like bail, conviction, or appeals.

The exact process depends on what is being appealed and the relevant legal rules.

In civil cases, SLPs can apply to issues like property, contracts, service matters, or family disputes.

The person filing the SLP must clearly state why the Supreme Court should get involved.

The process of filing an SLP generally involves several steps.

First, the lawyer reviews the decision being challenged.Then, they look at all the documents and evidence related to the case.Next, they outline the legal reasons for asking the Supreme Court to intervene.Finally, the petition is prepared and filed according to Supreme Court rules.The Court then reviews the case and may decide to allow the appeal or not.

After an SLP is filed, the Court may take various actions, like asking for more information, granting an extension, or deciding not to hear the case.

It's important to note that filing an SLP doesn't automatically stop the lower court's decision.A separate request is needed if a temporary stay is required.

An appeal is a type of legal action that is allowed under specific laws.

In contrast, an SLP is a request to the Supreme Court to use its discretion under Article 136 to allow an appeal.

Therefore, an SLP is not the same as a regular appeal.

Limitation Period for SLP

The time you have to file an SLP depends on the rules of the Supreme Court and the type of order you are challenging.

Different cases may have different time limits.

Since the time limit is important in Supreme Court cases, it is best to get legal help as soon as you receive a judgment or order.

Cost of an SLP

The cost of an SLP can vary depending on several factors, such as:

- Type of case

- Complexity of legal issues

- Number of documents

- Need for drafting

- Advocate's fee

- Filing fees

- Court appearances

- Interim applications

There is no fixed fee for an SLP from a private lawyer.

Advocate for SLP in Supreme Court

An SLP involves Supreme Court procedures and needs careful preparation of the petition and related documents.

Depending on the case, an Advocate-on-Record (AOR) plays an important role in filing matters with the Supreme Court.

If you are thinking about filing an SLP, it is advisable to have the judgment or order reviewed by a lawyer who is experienced in Supreme Court cases.

Documents Required for an SLP

The documents needed may include:

- The challenged judgment or order

- Orders from lower courts

- Pleadings

- Relevant applications

- Evidence and supporting documents

- Grounds used in previous proceedings

- Other relevant legal documents

- Any other records needed for the petition

The exact list of documents depends on your case.

Legal Help for Special Leave Petition

If you are looking for an SLP lawyer in the Supreme Court, Unison Law Offices can help you understand the legal options available based on your case.

Assistance may be needed for SLPs involving:

- Civil matters

- Criminal matters

- Property disputes

- Service matters

- Family disputes

- Bail matters

- High Court judgments

- Tribunal orders

- Other matters that need Supreme Court review

You can contact Unison Law Offices at +91 98998 32019 to discuss your case.

You can also talk to Advocate Tushar Sharma through Unison Law Offices to determine if an SLP or another legal remedy is suitable.

Conclusion

A Special Leave Petition is a constitutional remedy under Article 136 of the Indian Constitution that allows a party to seek special permission from the Supreme Court to appeal against a judgment, order, determination, or sentence.

The Supreme Court has the power to decide whether or not to grant special leave.

Therefore, filing an SLP does not guarantee that the Supreme Court will hear your case as an appeal.

If you are considering an SLP, it is important to get the challenged judgment, case history, and relevant documents reviewed quickly.

For any assistance with an SLP, contact Unison Law Offices at +91 98998 32019.

Legal Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not provide legal advice.

Whether a case is maintainable, what the time limit is, and what the proper remedy is, depends on the facts, the law, and the court procedures.

What is a Special Leave Petition?
A Special Leave Petition, or SLP, is a constitutional remedy under Article 136 through which a party asks the Supreme Court to grant special permission to appeal against an eligible judgment, order, determination or sentence.
What is SLP meaning in law?
SLP means Special Leave Petition. It is a petition requesting the Supreme Court to exercise its discretionary power under Article 136 and grant special leave to appeal.
What is Article 136 of the Constitution?
Article 136 gives the Supreme Court discretionary power to grant special leave to appeal from judgments, decrees, determinations, sentences or orders passed by courts or tribunals in India, subject to the constitutional provision.
Can an SLP be filed against a High Court judgment?
An SLP may be filed against an appropriate High Court judgment or order where the constitutional and procedural requirements are satisfied. The Supreme Court decides whether to grant special leave.
Can an SLP be filed in a criminal case?
Yes. SLPs can arise from appropriate criminal proceedings, including certain challenges involving bail, conviction, acquittal and other criminal orders.
Can an SLP be filed in a civil case?
Yes. Civil matters involving property, contracts, service issues, commercial disputes, family matters and other civil questions may potentially reach the Supreme Court through an SLP when the applicable requirements are satisfied.
Does filing an SLP automatically stay the lower court order?
No. Filing an SLP does not by itself automatically stay the judgment or order being challenged. Appropriate interim relief or a stay order may need to be sought.
What happens if the Supreme Court grants special leave?
If special leave is granted, the matter proceeds as an appeal according to the applicable Supreme Court procedure.
How long do I have to file an SLP?
The applicable limitation period depends on the nature of the matter and the relevant Supreme Court rules and provisions. The judgment or order should be reviewed promptly to determine the applicable limitation.
How much does an SLP lawyer charge?
SLP legal fees vary according to the complexity of the case, documents, drafting requirements, advocate's professional fee, appearances and other expenses. There is no single universal private fee.
Is an Advocate-on-Record required for an SLP?
Supreme Court filing and procedural requirements involve the role of an Advocate-on-Record. The appropriate filing arrangement should be confirmed based on the particular matter and current Supreme Court rules.
Can Unison Law Offices help with an SLP?
Unison Law Offices can help clients understand legal representation options for appropriate Supreme Court matters, including SLP proceedings. Contact +91 98998 32019.
Can Advocate Tushar Sharma assist with an SLP?
You can contact Unison Law Offices at +91 98998 32019 to discuss your matter and explore consultation and appropriate legal representation options involving Advocate Tushar Sharma.