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Section 12 — Chief Judicial Magistrate and Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate, etc
12
12
Chief Judicial Magistrate and Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate, etc
Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973
Chapter II Constitution of Criminal Courts And Offices
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Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
MagistratesCourt StructureJudicial Process
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 12 of the CrPC deals with the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) and Additional CJM. The High Court appoints a CJM in each district. The High Court can also appoint Additional CJMs. They have the same powers as the CJM. The High Court can also appoint Sub-divisional Judicial Magistrates.
Why does this law exist? This law ensures there is a head magistrate in each district to oversee the judicial process. It helps in the smooth functioning of the courts. It also provides for additional magistrates to handle the workload.
Real-life impact If you are involved in a serious criminal case in your district, the CJM might oversee your case. The CJM ensures that all legal procedures are followed correctly. The Additional CJM helps to manage the cases.
What happens if you break this law? This section itself doesn't define a crime or punishment. It only sets up the roles of magistrates. The punishments for crimes are defined in other sections of the CrPC and the Indian Penal Code.
💡 Real Life Example

Amit is arrested for a serious crime. The Chief Judicial Magistrate in his district will oversee the case. The CJM ensures that the investigation is fair. The CJM will decide on bail and other legal matters.

Sneha is involved in a complex fraud case. The Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate will assist the CJM. The Additional CJM will handle some of the legal proceedings. The court will decide on the punishment.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Know who the CJM and Additional CJM are in your district.
  • •Understand the roles of the magistrates.
  • •Seek legal representation.
  • •Ensure fair treatment in court.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 12 of the CrPC deals with the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) and Additional CJM. The High Court appoints a CJM in each district. The High Court can also appoint Additional CJMs. They have the same powers as the CJM. The High Court can also appoint Sub-divisional Judicial Magistrates. They oversee the judicial process.
Section 12 itself doesn't define any punishment. It only sets up the roles of magistrates. The punishments for crimes are defined in other sections of the CrPC and the Indian Penal Code. The specific punishment depends on the crime committed. The CJM will oversee the legal proceedings.
Sources & References

📒 Legal text sourced from The Gazette of India & AdvocateKhoj Bare Acts Library

⚖️ Content reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate, with 31 years of legal practice

📚 Act Reference: Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified advocate for specific legal matters.

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