Preliminary inquiry is permissible only when the information does not disclose a cognizable offence

In Mohammad Afzal Mohammad Sharif v. State of Maharashtra & Ors., decided on 19 August 2025, the Supreme Court held that during communally charged situations,  preliminary inquiry may only be done when it does not disclose a cognizable offence. Failure to do so, especially in communally sensitive situations, amounts to a serious dereliction of duty and violates the rule of law.

Justice Sanjay Kumar dealt with the case wherein the appellant, a 17-year-old boy, alleged that he was brutally assaulted during communal riots in Akola, Maharashtra. The appellant’s writ appeal had been rejected by the High Court, which questioned his sincerity and pointed to his tardiness in calling the police. The Supreme Court, however, disagreed, noting that the police have a direct responsibility to take action under Section 154 CrPC as soon as they learn of a crime that is punishable by law.

In Lalita Kumari v. Government of Uttar Pradesh, the Court upheld the ruling that police must file a formal complaint (FIR) as soon as a cognizable offense is disclosed, and that only a limited preliminary investigation is allowed to determine whether the disclosure is accurate. The judgement additA beionally touched upon Section 173(3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, noting that even under the new legal regime, preliminary inquiry may be allowed only in limited cases to prevent frivolous FIRs. However, the same cannot be equated to dismissing the credibility of lodging FIR. 

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Associate (IPR and Legal) Jobs in Delhi – Recruitment for Intellectual Property & Legal Practice by Lex Praxis (0-2 years experience)

A new hiring opportunity is open in Delhi for candidates interested in building a career in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and legal practice. The firm Lex Praxis is inviting applications for the position of Associate (IPR & Legal), targeting candidates with 0–2 years of experience, including fresh law graduates who demonstrate a strong interest in intellectual property law. This opening for Associate IPR and Legal Jobs in Delhi at Lex Praxis offers hands-on exposure to trademarks, patents, legal drafting, hearings, and client advisory work.

For young legal professionals who want to specialise in IPR, early exposure to real-world trademark and patent matters is critical. This role provides a practical learning environment where associates can work closely with experienced professionals and develop both technical knowledge and professional skills. If you are looking to start or grow your career in intellectual property law, this opportunity can help you build a strong foundation.

About the Intellectual Property & Legal Practice

The Lex Praxis Intellectual Property & Legal Practice advises clients on trademark registration and prosecution, patent-related matters, enforcement strategies, and broader legal advisory services. The practice works with a diverse range of clients, including startups, technology companies, creative professionals, and established businesses seeking to protect and manage their intellectual property assets.

By applying for Associate IPR and Legal Jobs in Delhi at Lex Praxis, candidates gain the opportunity to work in an environment that combines advisory work with procedural practice before relevant authorities. This allows young associates to understand both the strategic and compliance aspects of intellectual property law. The role is designed to offer continuous learning through exposure to real client matters and professional mentorship.

Role Overview: Associate (IPR and Legal at Lex Praxis)

Selected candidates for Associate IPR and Legal Jobs in Delhi will be part of the firm’s Intellectual Property & Legal Practice and will work on a range of IPR-related and general legal matters. The role is suitable for candidates with 0–2 years of experience, including fresh graduates with a demonstrated interest in intellectual property law.

This position provides exposure across multiple dimensions of IPR and legal practice, helping associates develop a broad skill set that can support long-term career growth in intellectual property law, corporate advisory, or litigation support.

Key Responsibilities and Exposure

Candidates selected for Associate IPR and Legal Jobs in Delhi at Lex Praxis can expect to gain experience in the following areas:

Trademarks

Associates will assist with trademark searches, filing of applications, prosecution, responding to office actions, and handling opposition or rectification matters. This provides foundational exposure to trademark law and practice before the relevant registry.

Patents

The role includes assisting with patent-related documentation, coordination with patent professionals, and supporting procedural aspects of patent filings. While detailed technical drafting may involve patent agents, associates gain valuable exposure to patent processes and strategy.

Legal Drafting

Associates will assist in drafting legal documents, notices, applications, responses, and advisory notes. This helps build precision in legal writing and strengthens understanding of legal reasoning and argumentation.

Hearings and Procedural Exposure

The position offers exposure to hearings before trademark registries and other relevant forums. Associates may assist in preparing briefs and documentation for hearings, gaining insight into procedural aspects of IP practice.

Client Advisory Support

Associates will support client advisory work, helping with basic legal opinions, compliance-related queries, and documentation. This helps develop communication skills and an understanding of client management in professional legal practice.

Eligibility Criteria

Lex Praxis is looking for candidates who meet the following criteria:

  • Qualification: LL.B.
  • Experience: 0–2 years (fresh graduates encouraged to apply)
  • Strong interest in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)
  • Willingness to learn and work in a professional practice environment
  • Good legal drafting and research skills

Fresh graduates with internships or academic exposure in intellectual property law will find this opportunity particularly relevant. However, motivated candidates without prior IPR-specific experience but with a strong interest in the field are also encouraged to apply.

Why Apply for Associate IPR and Legal Jobs in Delhi?

There are several reasons why this opportunity stands out for early-career legal professionals:

Early Specialisation in IPR

This role allows candidates to start building domain expertise in intellectual property law at an early stage of their career, which can be a strong differentiator in the legal job market.

Practical Learning Environment

Associates gain hands-on exposure to trademarks, patents, drafting, and hearings, allowing them to move beyond theoretical knowledge and understand how IP law operates in practice.

Professional Mentorship

Working closely with experienced professionals provides guidance on legal strategy, client advisory, and procedural practice, supporting long-term professional development.

Career Growth in Delhi

Delhi is a major hub for intellectual property practice and legal services. Starting your career through Associate IPR and Legal Jobs in Delhi offers access to a vibrant professional ecosystem with opportunities for growth and networking.

Application Process

Interested candidates can apply for Associate IPR and Legal Jobs in Delhi by sharing their resume at the email attached to the quick apply button above.

Applicants must mention the subject line clearly as:
Application – Associate (IPR & Legal) | Delhi

Candidates are encouraged to include a concise cover email highlighting their interest in IPR and any relevant academic or internship experience in intellectual property law.


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