Banking and Finance: Advocates & Lawyers

Ajay Gautam, a distinguished advocate in India, is widely recognized as one of the best legal advisors in the field of banking and finance. With deep expertise in financial regulations, debt recovery, insolvency proceedings, and corporate restructuring, he offers strategic legal counsel to banks, financial institutions, and corporate clients. His sharp legal acumen and practical approach to resolving complex financial disputes have earned him a strong reputation for reliability and success in the legal community. Ajay Gautam’s guidance has proven invaluable in navigating India’s evolving financial legal landscape, making him a trusted name in banking and finance law.

Ajay Gautam Advocate is recognized as a prominent legal advisor in India, particularly specializing in banking and finance matters, including Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) and SARFAESI Act cases. His experience spans various legal domains, encompassing civil, criminal, corporate, constitutional, and human rights law, with a strong focus on representing clients in complex financial disputes and debt recovery actions. He is noted for his client-centric approach, commitment to justice, and ability to simplify complex legal issues, which has also led to a significant digital presence where he educates the public on legal rights.

Ajay Gautam Advocate is widely recognized as a leading legal advisor in India, particularly for his expertise in banking and finance law, with a focus on Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) proceedings and the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act. Based in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, he has over years of experience handling complex financial legal issues, including cheque bounce cases, arbitration, and high court matters. His in-depth understanding of banking law and commitment to delivering timely, effective solutions have earned him a reputation as one of India’s top lawyers in this field, serving clients with a broad portfolio of legal services across civil, criminal, and financial domains.

Sarfaesi: Advocates & Lawyers

Advocate Ajay Gautam, based in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, is widely recognized for his expertise in Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) and Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) cases. With over a decade of experience, he has successfully represented both lenders and borrowers in complex DRT and SARFAESI proceedings, earning a reputation for his deep understanding of banking laws and debt recovery processes. He practices in the Jabalpur High Court, Debt Recovery Tribunals, and other relevant forums, handling intricate cases related to loan recovery and property disputes. His work is noted for its precision and effectiveness in navigating the complexities of these specialized legal areas.

DRT: Advocates & Lawyers

Ajay Gautam Advocate is widely recognized as one of the leading lawyers in India specializing in Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) and Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act cases. Based in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, he is noted for his extensive experience and expertise in handling complex legal matters related to debt recovery, banking law, and financial disputes.

Debt Recovery Tribunals (DRTs) in India are specialized forums established under the Recovery of Debts and Bankruptcy Act, 1993, to facilitate the swift recovery of debts owed to banks and financial institutions. The procedure for engaging advocates and lawyers in DRT cases involves specific steps, and their role is critical due to the technical and legal complexities involved.

DRT Procedure

The process of handling a case before a DRT typically follows these steps:

Filing a Petition: The process begins with the bank or financial institution (creditor) filing an application with the DRT to recover the outstanding debt. The application must include all relevant documents, such as loan agreements, security documents, and evidence of default. Advocates ensure the petition is drafted accurately and complies with DRT procedural rules.

Serving Notice: Once the petition is filed, the DRT issues a notice to the borrower (defendant) to appear and respond. Lawyers ensure proper service of notice and adherence to timelines.

Filing a Written Statement: The borrower, through their advocate, files a written statement addressing the claims made by the creditor. This includes any defenses or counterclaims, such as challenging the validity of the debt or procedural errors.

Pre-Trial Proceedings: This stage involves document submission, evidence exchange, and preliminary hearings. Advocates play a key role in preparing and presenting documents, ensuring compliance with DRT rules, and addressing any technical defenses raised by the opposing party.

Trial: During the trial, both parties present their evidence and arguments. Lawyers represent their clients, cross-examine witnesses, and argue legal points before the Presiding Officer.

Judgment and Recovery: After the trial, the DRT issues an order, which may include directing the borrower to repay the debt or authorizing the sale of secured assets. If the borrower is dissatisfied, they can appeal to the Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunal (DRAT) within a specified period (usually 45 days under Rule 5 of DRAT Procedure Rules). Advocates assist in preparing and filing appeals.

Electronic Filing (Recent Development): As of June 25, 2025, the Debts Recovery Tribunals and Debts Recovery Appellate Tribunals Electronic Filing (Amendment) Rules, 2025, have introduced digital filing for DRTs and DRATs, streamlining the process. Advocates must now be adept at using digital platforms for filing and case management.

Role of Advocates and Lawyers

Advocates and lawyers specializing in DRT cases provide critical expertise due to the technical nature of debt recovery proceedings. Their roles include:

Mastery of DRT Procedures: Lawyers ensure compliance with complex DRT and SARFAESI (Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act, 2002) regulations, including deadlines and documentation requirements.

Drafting and Filing: Accurate drafting of petitions, written statements, and appeals is essential. Lawyers ensure all legal documents meet statutory requirements and are filed correctly, whether physically or electronically.

Handling Technical Defenses: Borrowers may raise technical or legal defenses, such as challenging the classification of a non-performing asset (NPA) or procedural lapses by the creditor. Advocates counter these defenses with legal arguments and evidence.

Representation and Advocacy: During hearings, lawyers represent their clients, present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue before the tribunal to secure favorable outcomes.

SARFAESI Expertise: Many DRT cases involve SARFAESI Act proceedings, where banks take possession of secured assets. Lawyers guide clients through challenging or defending SARFAESI actions, including filing counterclaims.

Appeals to DRAT: If a DRT order is unfavorable, advocates assist in filing appeals with the DRAT, ensuring compliance with procedural rules and timelines.

Client Guidance: Lawyers provide personalized advice, explaining the process, potential outcomes, and strategies to either recover debts (for creditors) or defend against claims (for borrowers).

Qualities of Effective DRT Lawyers

When choosing a DRT advocate, consider the following qualities:

Specialization: Look for lawyers with expertise in DRT, DRAT, and SARFAESI matters.

Experience: Proven success in handling DRT cases, especially in specific jurisdictions like Delhi or Mathura, enhances effectiveness.

Attention to Detail: Precision in drafting and adherence to procedural rules are critical to avoid dismissals on technical grounds.

Communication Skills: Effective advocacy requires clear presentation of arguments and evidence during hearings.

Knowledge of Digital Filing: With the 2025 amendment introducing electronic filing, lawyers must be proficient in digital case management.

Additional Notes

Why You Need a Lawyer: DRT proceedings are complex, with strict procedural requirements and technical defenses. A specialized lawyer ensures procedural accuracy, maximizes the chances of success, and navigates challenges like borrower defenses or SARFAESI-related issues.

Resources for Borrowers: Borrowers facing DRT cases can benefit from legal advice to file counterclaims or challenge creditor actions under the SARFAESI Act.

DRT: Advocates & Lawyers Procedure

The Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) is a specialized forum for resolving disputes related to the recovery of debts by banks and financial institutions. The procedures before DRT are distinct and require careful adherence to statutory rules, making the role of advocates and lawyers crucial for both creditors and debtors.

Filing a Petition/Application

The process starts with the filing of an Original Application (OA) by a bank, financial institution, or their authorized advocate under Section 19(2) of the Recovery of Debts and Bankruptcy Act, 1993 (RDB Act).

Supporting documents such as loan agreements, mortgage deeds, sanction letters, and statements of default must be annexed. Proper documentation is critical, as errors or omissions can delay or jeopardize the case.

Serving Notice

After filing, the DRT issues a notice to the respondent (borrower), informing them about the case and the hearing date. The respondent is given an opportunity to file a written statement in defense.

Filing Written Statement

The borrower or respondent must file a written statement addressing the claims and presenting their defense.

Pre-Trial Proceedings

This stage may include framing of issues, discovery, and inspection of documents, similar to civil court procedures but on a more expedited timeline.

Trial and Hearings

Both parties present evidence, usually through affidavits. Cross-examination can be requested. Advocates play a vital role in preparing witnesses, objecting to inadmissible evidence, and presenting arguments.

Judgment and Recovery

The DRT issues a judgment, which may include orders for debt recovery, attachment of property, or other remedies. If aggrieved, parties can appeal to the Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunal (DRAT).

Role of Advocates & Lawyers in DRT

Specialized Legal Representation

DRT lawyers are specialists in debt recovery laws, including the RDB Act and SARFAESI Act. They ensure that applications and defenses are meticulously drafted and compliant with tribunal requirements.

Strategic Case Management

Advocates assess the merits of the case, anticipate defenses (like misrepresentation, procedural lapses, or regulatory violations), and develop a robust legal strategy.

Handling Technical Procedures

DRT procedures are summary and technical, requiring strict compliance. Lawyers manage filings, evidence, affidavits, and rejoinders, minimizing procedural errors that could harm the case.

Negotiation and Settlement

Experienced DRT advocates can negotiate settlements, draft binding agreements, and assess the cost-benefit of litigation versus settlement.

Appeals and Enforcement

If dissatisfied with a DRT order, advocates prepare and file appeals to DRAT, ensuring grounds of appeal are well-framed. They also assist in enforcing recovery certificates, including attachment and sale of assets.

Registration and E-Filing

Advocates must register with the e-DRT portal, providing demographic details, mobile number, and email ID to file and manage cases electronically.

Types of Applications Handled by Advocates in DRT

Original Application (OA) for debt recovery

Securitization Application (SA) under SARFAESI Act

Interlocutory Applications (IA) for interim relief

Review and Miscellaneous Applications

Caveats to ensure notice before adverse orders

Navigating DRT procedures requires specialized legal expertise. Advocates play a central role in drafting, filing, presenting, negotiating, and enforcing debt recovery claims, ensuring compliance with the unique procedural requirements of the tribunal. Engaging a seasoned DRT lawyer significantly enhances the chances of a favorable and timely outcome.

The procedure before the Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) involves specific steps and roles for advocates and lawyers representing banks, financial institutions, and borrowers.

1. Filing of Original Application (OA)

Who files: Usually banks or financial institutions (applicant).

Filed by: Advocate/lawyer on behalf of the bank under Section 19 of the Recovery of Debts and Bankruptcy Act, 1993 (formerly RDDBFI Act).

Contents: Loan agreement, details of default, amount due, evidence of debt, statement of account, etc.

2. Scrutiny and Numbering

Tribunal scrutinizes the OA for completeness.

If in order, it is assigned a case number and listed for hearing.

3. Issuance of Summons

DRT issues summons to the defendant (borrower).

Advocates ensure proper service of summons via registered post, publication, etc.

4. Filing of Written Statement (WS)

By borrower’s advocate.

Within 30 days (extendable up to 45 days), the borrower can file a reply contesting the claim.

May include counter-claims or set-offs.

5. Filing of Rejoinder

By bank’s advocate.

Responds to the written statement and addresses any counterclaims.

6. Evidence Stage

Affidavits of evidence filed by both parties.

Cross-examination may be allowed by the Tribunal’s discretion.

Lawyers handle:

Drafting and filing affidavits.

Conducting or defending cross-examinations.

7. Arguments

Advocates argue the case based on pleadings and evidence.

Tribunal may hear oral arguments or permit written submissions.

8. Final Order

DRT passes a recovery certificate (RC) if it finds the debt valid.

RC is executable by the Recovery Officer.

9. Execution Proceedings

Advocates initiate execution proceedings for:

Attachment of property.

Sale of assets.

Arrest and detention (in rare cases).

10. Appeal to DRAT (Appellate Tribunal)

Either party can appeal to the Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunal (DRAT) within 30 days.

Requires deposit of 50% of the amount (may be reduced to 25% by DRAT).

Lawyers prepare grounds of appeal and appear before DRAT.

Role of Advocates Throughout

Drafting petitions, applications, and replies.

Ensuring procedural compliance.

Representing clients at hearings.

Advising on strategy (e.g., SARFAESI proceedings, one-time settlements, etc.).

The Debt Recovery Tribunals (DRTs) in India were established under the Recovery of Debts Due to Banks and Financial Institutions Act, 1993 (RDDBFI Act), with the primary aim of providing an expedited and cost-effective mechanism for banks and financial institutions to recover their outstanding debts from defaulting borrowers. Advocates and lawyers play a crucial role in navigating the complex procedures of DRT.

I. Role of Advocates and Lawyers in DRT Cases:

Advocates specializing in DRT cases provide comprehensive legal assistance to both creditors (banks and financial institutions) and debtors (borrowers and guarantors). Their key roles include:

Legal Expertise: Possessing in-depth knowledge of debt recovery laws, including the RDDBFI Act and the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act, 2002.

Case Preparation and Documentation: Meticulously gathering, organizing, and scrutinizing all relevant documents such as loan agreements, security documents, demand notices, account statements, and evidence of default. Ensuring all documentation is accurate and compliant.

Drafting and Filing Pleadings:

For Creditors: Drafting and filing the Original Application (OA), which is the initial application seeking recovery of debt. This involves detailing the debt owed, particulars of the borrower, and the relief sought.

For Debtors: Drafting and filing the Written Statement or reply to the OA, addressing the claims made by the creditor and raising defenses or counterclaims.

For SARFAESI matters: Handling Securitisation Applications (SAs) filed by borrowers challenging actions taken by banks under the SARFAESI Act.

Jurisdiction Determination: Ascertaining the correct DRT jurisdiction where the cause of action arose or where the debtor resides/carries on business.

Fee Payment: Ensuring the prescribed court fees are paid at the time of filing, which vary based on the debt amount.

Representation and Advocacy: Appearing before the DRT on behalf of their clients, presenting arguments, examining and cross-examining witnesses, and submitting evidence. They advocate their client’s interests with diligence and professionalism.

Negotiation and Settlement: Actively engaging in negotiations to explore amicable solutions, including one-time settlements (OTS) or debt restructuring, to expedite resolution and minimize litigation costs.

Interim Orders: Applying for interim orders such as attachment of properties or restraining debtors from disposing of assets to protect the creditor’s interests during the pendency of the case.

Appeals and Reviews: Filing appeals before the Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunal (DRAT) against DRT orders (usually within 45 days) or seeking a review of the DRT’s order if errors are apparent on the face of the record.

Enforcement of Orders: Assisting clients in enforcing DRT orders (recovery certificates) through the Recovery Officer, which may involve attachment and sale of properties, garnishee orders, or other legal remedies.

II. Step-by-Step Procedure for Advocates:

Preparation of Application:

For creditors (banks/financial institutions): Prepare the Original Application (OA) in the prescribed format, detailing the debt, borrower particulars, and relief sought.

For debtors: Prepare a comprehensive reply/written statement to the OA, addressing the claims and presenting defenses.

Gather all supporting documents (loan agreements, demand notices, statements of account, security documents, etc.).

Jurisdiction and Pecuniary Limit:

Confirm the correct DRT jurisdiction based on the debtor’s location or where the cause of action arose.

Ensure the debt amount meets the DRT’s pecuniary jurisdiction (currently, debts of ₹20 lakhs or more for individuals/companies are generally heard by DRTs).

e-Filing (Now Mandatory):

As of June 23, 2025, e-filing of all legal pleadings before DRTs and DRATs has been made mandatory by the Ministry of Finance.

Advocates must register on the e-DRT portal (https://drt.gov.in) with their demographic details and Bar Council registration number.

Log in to the e-DRT portal, select the appropriate DRT/DRAT, and choose the type of application (OA, SA, etc.).

Fill in applicant and defendant details, upload documents (in PDF format, total size usually not exceeding 100 MB), and review the application.

Payment of Court Fees:

Pay the prescribed court fees online through the e-filing system. The fee structure depends on the amount of debt claimed.

Submission of Application:

Submit the e-filed application. Upon successful submission, a diary number is generated.

Scrutiny and Admission:

The DRT Registrar scrutinizes the application for completeness and compliance with statutory requirements. If satisfactory, the application is admitted.

Issuance of Notice/Summons:

Upon admission, the DRT issues notices/summons to the defendants (borrowers/guarantors), serving them with a copy of the application. The defendants are typically given a specific time (e.g., 30 days) to file their reply.

Filing of Written Statement/Reply:

The debtor, through their advocate, files their written statement within the stipulated time, addressing the creditor’s claims and presenting their defense, counterclaims, or objections.

Evidence and Hearings:

The DRT conducts hearings. Both parties, through their advocates, present their evidence (often through affidavits), call witnesses, and make legal submissions.

Advocates engage in cross-examination of witnesses to establish facts and challenge opposing evidence.

The DRT adheres to principles of natural justice, though it follows a summary procedure to expedite cases, unlike the strict adherence to the Civil Procedure Code in civil courts.

Interim Orders (if applicable):

Advocates may seek or respond to applications for interim orders during the proceedings to protect their client’s interests.

Final Order:

Based on the evidence and arguments, the DRT passes a final order for the recovery of the debt or dismissal of the case. The order specifies the amount to be recovered and the mode of recovery.

Appeal to DRAT (if aggrieved):

If a party is aggrieved by the DRT’s order, their advocate can file an appeal before the Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunal (DRAT) within 45 days from the date of the DRT’s order, along with the necessary fees and documents. A deposit of 50% of the decreed amount (which may be waived under certain circumstances) is typically required for filing an appeal by the borrower.

Enforcement of Orders:

Once the DRT’s order becomes final, the advocate assists in enforcing it through the Recovery Officer. This involves steps like attachment of the debtor’s properties, public auction of assets, and distribution of proceeds to the creditor.

Importance of Experienced DRT Lawyers:

Given the specialized nature of debt recovery laws and the unique procedures of DRTs, it is crucial to engage experienced DRT lawyers. They can:

Ensure accurate and complete documentation.

Navigate procedural complexities and avoid technical delays.

Develop effective legal strategies tailored to the specific case.

Represent clients effectively in hearings and cross-examinations.

Facilitate favorable settlements.

Handle appeals proficiently.

Expedite the entire recovery process.

DRT advocates are vital in guiding clients through the intricacies of debt recovery, from initial application to the enforcement of orders, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and maximizing the chances of a favorable outcome.