13/08/2025
*Liability of Special Power of Attorney & Surety in Family Case*
Plain reading of Rule 1 Order 3 CPC, shows that a recognized agent can appear, file, applications or act in or to any court on behalf of any party.
Rule 2 of Order 3 CPC, refers to a class of persons who could be treated as recognized of parties which include a person holding power of attorney authorizing him to make such appearance, application and act on behalf of a party.
Applying ordinary meaning word "appear" means to be present and to be represent the party at various stages of litigation.
The words "application" or "act" mean necessary steps, which can be taken on behalf a party in the court or office of the court in the course of litigation.
Thus recognized agent or special attorney is entitled to appear, file applications and act for a party but is not liable for satisfaction of decree passed against judgement debtor.
Whereas a Surety is governed U/S 128 of the Contract Act, 1872 and enforceable for performance of any decree or any part thereifU/S 145 CPC
Though CPC does not strictly apply in family matters but its principles are applicable.
Special attorney will only appear on behalf of a person and will not be liable as a Surety unless he executes Surety bond on behalf of a judgement debtor for satisfaction of decree.
PLD 2012 Lah 392
2021 CLC 1841
2018 YLR 2199
2004 SCMR 1352
2025 CLC 1124